History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire — Volume 5

A historical account written in the late 18th to mid-19th century. The volume covers significant events in the history of the Roman Empire, focusing primarily on the influence of Christianity and the rise of the papacy, as well as the interactions with various Germanic tribes, particularly the Franks. The narrative seeks to elucidate the complex relationship between religion and politics during the decline of Rome and the subsequent emergence of new powers. The opening of this volume introduces key themes surrounding the interplay of church and state, particularly the growing power of the papacy amid the backdrop of iconoclasm and the worship of images. Gibbon discusses the controversies regarding religious icons, recounting how the people's devotion to images led to widespread conflicts and played a pivotal role in establishing the temporal dominion of the popes. Key figures such as Charlemagne and Pope Gregory II are highlighted, presenting a rich tapestry of events that outlines the transformation of religious practices and their implications for the political landscape of Italy and beyond. The text skillfully blends intricate historical detail with Gibbon's insightful commentary, setting the stage for the ensuing exploration of the Franks’ conquest of Italy and the fate of the Eastern Empire.