Ottonian Notions of imperium and the Byzantine Empire

Abstract This study re-examines the Ottonian Empire’s self-conception and its relationship with its eastern counterpart in the context of the empire’s re-establishment in the West. Building on earlier Roman, Byzantine, and Carolingian precedents, the Ottonians redefined their empire as a continuation of the Frankish realm, placing comparably little emphasis on Byzantine or ancient Roman models. The coronation of Otto I, which took place without direct Byzantine involvement, marked a significant moment in the establishment of the western empire, with recognition by the Byzantine emperor regarded as a retroactive consideration rather than an immediate concern. The study argues that, unlike Charlemagne, the Ottonian emperors viewed their empire as a distinct entity, one that did not aim to merge with or mirror the eastern empire, despite their shared heritage. This distinction was also reflected in ethnic and territorial terms, with the Ottonians cultivating a unique imperial identity based on their Frankish inheritance. The collapse of the Carolingian empire and the subsequent interregnum played a critical role in the separation of the western and eastern empires, fostering a growing divergence in their respective political and cultural trajectories. However, Byzantine influence was not absent. Empress Theophanu, who brought a Byzantine presence to the Ottonian court, and her son Otto III, demonstrated the persistence of eastern traditions in their rulership. Nevertheless, Otto III’s reign also highlighted a distinctively western identity, as he balanced his Roman legacy with his Greek heritage, firmly placing the empire within the context of the western Christian world. This study thus presents the Ottonian empire as a uniquely western political entity, shaped by its Frankish roots and a pragmatic approach to its imperial heritage.