The ruling idea of Charlemagne was the re-establishment of the Roman
Empire,--the building up on German soil of that colossal power which had
toppled over because it rested on the too narrow basis of Latin
nationality. In executing this design he aimed to use all the elements
of civilization that the times presented, and especially these two great
elements,--the political ideas and instincts of the Teutons, and the
adhesive power of the Christian Church. Hence we find him, throughout
his whole career, carefully cherishing all those old German
institutions upon which the mass of his people looked with deep
reverence, while at the same time we behold him the protector of the
Pope and the loyal and ardent champion of the Church.