Pomysły na „nowy porządek świata”: podróż Karola IV na koronację cesarską do Rzymu w świetle korespondencji Niccolò Acciaiuoliego i Petrarki
Ideas for a “new world order”: Charles IV’s journey for imperial coronation to Rome as reflected in the correspondence of Niccolò Acciaioli and Petrarch

Summary/Abstract: The imperial coronation of Charles IV in 1355 has been widely regarded by scholars as of little import and without lasting historical significance. In fact, the opposite is the case. The coronation journey needs to be understood in the wider context of the power struggle between the Holy Roman Empire and papacy in Italy. This article examines the complex situation from the perspectives of Charles and his opponents and supporters in Italy. It demonstrates how the coronation led to a decisive redistribution of power relations in Italy and Europe, resulting in the Golden Bull (1356) and the Aegidian Constitutions (1357). A previously unknown letter by Niccolò Acciaiuoli, who directed the political affairs of the Kingdom of Naples, is discussed here for the first time. It illuminates the political tactics of the opposing Guelphs and the effect of Charles’ presence in Rome on their aims. The article also re-examines the long-disputed question as to why Charles did not accept Petrarch’s invitation to act in Italy as the defender of the res publica, and why the humanist failed to accept the invitation to accompany Charles to Rome.

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