Coronation Rites

This handbook invites listeners into the world of royal coronations, tracing how ancient rites evolved from early Roman imperial ceremonies to the intricate liturgies of medieval Europe. Beginning with a close look at the coronation of Henry I, it shows how religious symbolism and political authority intertwined, offering vivid details of objects, vestments, and prayers that marked the moment a king became a monarch.

The author then broadens the perspective, comparing the English tradition with Byzantine, French, Russian, and even Ethiopian practices, while highlighting the fluid nature of each rite as it adapted to local customs and theological shifts. Along the way, the narrative explains key concepts such as unction, regalia, and the role of sacred texts, making the complexities of ecclesiastical ceremony accessible to students and anyone curious about the ritual foundations of rule.