Author Description

The lengthy and eventful reign of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V has long intrigued European historians with its significant accomplishments in commerce, politics, and culture. This volume is the result of an international colloquium that sought to integrate a wealth of international research to construct a more comprehensive view of the Emperor's pivotal role in the evolution of Western influence and power. The distinguished contributors investigate three main areas of Charles' reign. They examine the economic developments that emerged under his rule, including the financing of wars and how his merging of various realms stimulated trade between different regions. The authors then consider the structure of Charles' political system, exploring the monarchy's method for maintaining the secrecy of their communications and the structure of his vast empire's administrative apparatus. The volume concludes with an examination of the unique relationship between Charles and artists, as he constructed and manipulated his public image through his support of artworks that glorified his deeds.