Herrscherbeinamen in der mittelalterlichen Geschichtsschreibung

Versuch einer Typologie anhand von Vergabe und Verwendung

Abstract

Surnames of rulers in medieval historiography. Attempt to classify on the basis of name-giving and use. – Historical surnames and nicknames of medieval rulers are very popular due to their ability to distinguish individuals, and their awareness pointedly. However, the historical research criticized their lack of explanatory power for the actual personality of the signified. The paper, therefore, proposes to turn our gaze away from the conformity of the epithets with the character and deeds of historical figures on the surnamegiving and -using practices including the motives of the authors and users. To this end, a typology is created.