Oaths of Fidelity 802

Definition: In 802, Emperor Charlemagne called to an oath of fidelity from each of his subjects. As Charlemagne acquired more territory for his empire, he would send an ambassador out to receive oaths of fidelity from the inhabitants of the conquered land (Einhard, Notker, and Ganz 26). In 802, Charlemagne sent out a universal oath of fidelity degree that all subjects had to pledge. These oaths were administered by the missi dominici. There are two different versions of this oath that have been found, but they are the same in content; The subject must promise to “be faithful to lord Charles, the emperor, with regard to his realm and his rights, just a s a man rightly should be to his lord” (Odegaard 285).

Importance: This was not Charlemagne’s first mandatory oath of fidelity during his reign. He had demanded fidelity from his subjects before, but the guidelines which subjects were promising to adhere to were vague. Charlemagne did not feel as though his subjects were faithful enough, so he added this clause about being devoted to the emperor as a vassal should be to his lord. This was the kind of resolute fidelity he wanted from his people. Making people swear allegiance is an interesting tactic that dictators have used for centuries following Charlemagne. While it may not be in the subjects’ best interest, it is an effective way for the ruler to maintain a level of support from the people.

source: http://www.britannica.com/topic/feudalism/images-videos/Charlemagne-receiving-the-oath-of-fidelity-and-homage-from-a/163148