History Extra Podcast: "Frederick Barbarossa: Life of the Week" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: February 25, 2025
Host/Author: Immediate Media for History Extra Podcast
Episode Title: Frederick Barbarossa: Life of the Week

Introduction to Frederick Barbarossa

The episode delves into the life and legacy of Frederick Barbarossa, one of medieval Europe's most formidable rulers. Hosted by a representative from History Extra, the episode features an in-depth interview with Professor Graham Loud, Emeritus Professor of Medieval History at the University of Leeds and author of Frederick Barbarossa. The discussion explores Frederick's rise to power, his military campaigns, his complex relationship with the Papacy, and his enduring legacy in both historical scholarship and folklore.

Early Life and Background

[03:04] Professor Graham Loud:
“Frederick Barbarossa was king of Germany from 1152 to 1190, and he was crowned Roman Emperor in the west in 1155. He was undoubtedly the dominant figure in the European politics of the later part of the 12th century.”

Frederick, born in December 1122 (likely in Hagenau, Alsace), was the son of Frederick, Duke of Swabia. However, little is known about his upbringing or early life until he appeared in historical records at age 15. Unlike many royal offspring, Frederick was not initially expected to ascend to the throne, leading to limited contemporary interest in his early years.

Involvement in the Second Crusade

[06:13] Professor Graham Loud:
“Frederick participated in the Second Crusade as the second in command of the German army led by his uncle, Conrad III.”

The Second Crusade (1147-1148) was marked by heavy casualties and strategic failures. Frederick's role was significant yet fraught with challenges, including tense interactions with the Byzantine Empire and devastating losses during the Siege of Damascus. These experiences later influenced his cautious approach during his own crusade four decades later.

Election as Holy Roman Emperor

[10:55] Professor Graham Loud:
“Frederick was elected and was crowned king at Aachen three days later, having moved very fast indeed from Frankfurt to Aachen to secure the coronation.”

Upon the death of Conrad III in 1152, Frederick swiftly secured his election as king of Germany, circumventing the potential succession of Conrad’s younger son, who was only six years old. This rapid ascent, supported by key German princes and churchmen, resembled a coup but included concessions to avoid future conflicts.

Reign as Ruler: Relations with German Princes

[15:38] Professor Graham Loud:
“Much of rule in Germany is about this role as arbiter between the great men. And I mean the great men were quarrelsome. And what the emperor's got to do is try and quell these disputes, calm them down, but not offend either party so much that they're going to cause trouble in future.”

Frederick adeptly managed the complex relationships among Germany's powerful local princes, acting as a mediator to maintain stability. His ability to balance authority without overtly dominating the princes was crucial, especially as he spent significant periods focusing on Italian affairs.

Italian Campaigns

[18:14] Professor Graham Loud:
“Frederick wanted to reassert genuine royal rule in Italy. He wanted to regain the regalian rights, which are rights over things like tolls, minting, fishing rights.”

Frederick's reign was heavily marked by his attempts to restore imperial authority in Italy, leading to prolonged military campaigns against autonomous Italian cities, notably Milan. His 1158-62 campaign resulted in the temporary destruction and evacuation of Milan in 1162. However, the rise of the Lombard League in 1167 signaled significant resistance, culminating in widespread rebellion and Frederick's eventual retreat from Italy.

Relations with the Papacy

[23:46] Professor Graham Loud:
“Frederick's relations with the popes were always somewhat tense. This is a long-standing issue.”

Frederick's tenure was characterized by strained relations with the Papacy, particularly during the papal schism following Pope Adrian IV's death in 1159. Frederick supported the legitimacy of Victor IV over Alexander III, leading to a two-decade-long dispute. It wasn't until the 1177 Council of Venice that Frederick recognized Alexander III, along with signing truces with the Lombard League and the Kingdom of Sicily, thereby stabilizing his relations with both the Papacy and Italian cities.

The Third Crusade and Death

[31:05] Professor Graham Loud:
“Frederick took the cross early in 1188, and very large scale recruitment took place in Germany.”

Motivated by Saladin's victories and the fall of Jerusalem in 1187, Frederick embarked on the Third Crusade. His preparations were extensive, involving diplomatic negotiations for safe passage through hostile territories. Despite maintaining discipline and effective leadership, Frederick drowned in June 1190 while attempting to cross the River Saleph in Asia Minor. His death significantly weakened the crusader forces, leading to the eventual failure of the campaign.

Legacy and Mythos

[38:56] Professor Graham Loud:
“In 1941 when Germany invaded Russia. And that was known as Operation Barbarossa and was apparently Hitler's personal choice of a codename. So, yes, he was seen as very much the poster boy for German nationalism.”

Frederick Barbarossa's legacy extends beyond his lifetime, particularly in German folklore where he is akin to King Arthur in British lore. The Kifuza legend portrays him as a sleeping hero destined to return in Germany's hour of need. This myth was revitalized in the 19th century amidst rising German nationalism and was later appropriated by Nazi Germany during Operation Barbarossa. Additionally, his influence persists in modern cultural representations, including Italian political symbolism and cinematic portrayals.

Cultural Representations

[44:34] Professor Graham Loud:
“There’s a terrible film, Federico Barbarossa, which dates from 2009, starring Rutger Hauer as the emperor.”

Frederick's story has been adapted into various forms of media, reflecting both the historical and mythical aspects of his persona. While some portrayals, like the 2009 film Federico Barbarossa, have been criticized for historical inaccuracies, they underscore the enduring fascination with his figure in European culture.

Conclusion: Historical Significance

[41:43] Professor Graham Loud:
“We need to be aware of the posthumous legacy, but in a sense, I think that is fairly uncontentious. Where we really need to be aware of him is the actual real historical significance.”

Frederick Barbarossa's reign was pivotal in shaping the political landscape of medieval Europe. His efforts to consolidate imperial authority in Germany and Italy set the stage for the region's fragmented future. His leadership during the Third Crusade demonstrated both his military prowess and the limitations of medieval crusading efforts. Frederick's enduring legacy, both historical and mythical, continues to influence perceptions of medieval leadership and nationalism.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [03:04] Professor Graham Loud:
  “Frederick Barbarossa was king of Germany from 1152 to 1190, and he was crowned Roman Emperor in the west in 1155.”

• [10:55] Professor Graham Loud:
  “Frederick persuades the princes to choose him. He was, after all, an adult. He was 29, as opposed to six. So he's obviously a more suitable ruler.”

• [15:38] Professor Graham Loud:
  “Much of rule in Germany is about this role as arbiter between the great men. And I mean the great men were quarrelsome.”

• [23:46] Professor Graham Loud:
  “Frederick's relations with the popes were always somewhat tense. This is a long-standing issue.”

• [38:56] Professor Graham Loud:
  “In 1941 when Germany invaded Russia. And that was known as Operation Barbarossa and was apparently Hitler's personal choice of a codename.”

Final Thoughts

Frederick Barbarossa remains a towering figure in medieval history, embodying both the strengths and complexities of imperial rule. Professor Graham Loud highlights the duality of Frederick's legacy—his substantial impact on European political structures and the later mythologizing that has, at times, overshadowed historical realities. Understanding Frederick's true role offers valuable insights into the evolution of medieval governance and the enduring narratives that shape our interpretation of history.

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