A mirror of princes who opted out: Regino of Prüm and royal monastic conversion

Abstract

The theme of royal monastic conversion was of major significance to Regino. This is not only demonstrated by the interpolation concerning Carloman's conversion in Monte Cassino in the Chronicle. It is also demonstrated by the examples concerned with kings and princes ending up in monasteries for one reason (or crime) or another. Regino's interest in this phenomenon may in part derive from his first-hand experience in dealing with Hugh, a member of the royal family who was relegated to a life in a monastery. Many stories about the illustrious members of the community must have circulated in Prüm and perhaps some elements of Carloman's conversion story have their origin in such tales. In addition to this practical application for Carloman's exemplum memorabile, Regino had a more general point to make about proper royal conduct and royal responsibility.