Theodulf
Theodulf was an influential figure in the Carolingian court, born in Spain around 760 CE, and of Gothic heritage. He gained prominence at King Charlemagne's court in 794 and held several important positions, including bishop of Orleans and abbot of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire. A staunch supporter of Charlemagne's reforms, Theodulf was dedicated to enhancing education and clergy standards, establishing schools, and founding hospices. His theological contributions included treatises such as "De spirito sancto," which discussed the Holy Ghost's procession, and "De ordine baptismi," about baptismal ceremonies. He also authored the "Libri Carolini," opposing the veneration of images, arguing it equated to idolatry. After Charlemagne's death, Theodulf's influence waned, culminating in his imprisonment by Louis the Pious, who accused him of rebellion. He died in prison in 821, with the suspicion of poisoning surrounding his death. Theodulf was later canonized by the Roman Catholic Church and is remembered for his poetry, including works that vividly depicted court life and a hymn still used in Catholic services today.
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Theodulf
Bishop
- Born: c. 760
- Birthplace: Probably northern Spain
- Died: December 18, 0821
- Place of death: Angers, France
Biography
Theodulf was born in Spain sometime around 760 c.e.. Because of his Gothic heritage, he became a member of King Charlemagne’s court around 794. He was considered one of the most learned and distinguished men at the court. Theodulf later was appointed as abbot at Fleury and Saint- Aignan and around 781, Charlemagne appointed him bishop of Orleans. He later became abbott of Saint-Benoît-sur- Loire.
Theodulf was a loyal supporter of Charlemagne’s principles of government and his efforts to reform education. When he was an abbot, Theodulf established schools, worked to reform the clergy, and founded a hospice. In 800, he traveled to Rome for Charlemagne’s coronation, and several years later he succeeded the English scholar Alcuin as the king’s chief theological advisor.
At Charlemagne’s request, Theodulf wrote an opinion on the much disputed point of the procession of the Holy Ghost, a question that divided the Greek and Roman churches. In the treatise, “De spirito sancto,” Theodulf argued that the Holy Ghost proceeded from both the Son and the Father, an argument known as the Filioque clause. Also at the king’s request he wrote “De ordine baptismi,” a treatise on the ceremonies involved in baptism. As well, Theodulf wrote the Libri Carolini, or Charlemagne’s book, in response to a document written after the Second Council of Nicaea. In that text, he argues against the common practice of paying religious honor to graven images, calling it idolatry.
After the death of Charlemagne, Theodulf maintained his position at court for a short time, even traveling to Rome as an escort to Pope Stephen V who had presided over the coronation of Charlemagne’s successor, Louis the Pious (Louis I). In 816, he received the pallium, a symbol of Episcopal authority, from the Pope. However, Theodulf ’s influence as theologian to the court came to an end in 818. Louis the Pious accused Theodulf of participating in a rebellion against him that was led by Louis’s nephew, Bernard of Italy. Although he protested his innocence, Theodulf was imprisoned in a monastery at Angers. He died in prison in 821, mostly likely having been poisoned. Theodulf was later canonized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
In addition to his treatises, Theodulf wrote beautiful poetry. His poetry provides a vivid portrait of life in Charlemagne’s court. In particular, his poem “Ad Carolum regem,” describes Charlemagne surrounded by his family and members of the court. He is also credited with writing the hymn “Gloria laus, et honor,” which is traditionally used at Palm Sunday services in the Roman Catholic Church.