Where lies the legitimacy to lead Europe?
It is not an exaggeration to say that the history of Europe is determined by the rivalry between France and Germany. As we have seen in the previous post, the real rivalry can only be between brothers, and that is the profound nature of politics.
Can such a perspective be applied to international relations and the future of Europe?
If you dig into the deep psyche of nations, many of the neuroses, forgetfulnesses and unspoken things will quickly come out. But it is the most obvious things that are sometimes the hardest to grasp.
Who remembers that history books in France and Germany refer to the same person as the founder, the father of the nation: Charlemagne (Carolus Magnus, 747-814)?
In Paris, we have a monumental bronze statue situated on the plaza in front of Notre-Dame.
But his remains (with its throne) lie in the magnificent cathedral in Aachen, in what is now Germany.
Thus, since the two states are still fighting over their father's remains, we can safely say that we are facing a typical tribal issue, since whoever possesses the remains of the father rightfully inherits his power.
A lesser known fact: Italy also claims the right to participate in this rivalry. According to some Italian historians, Charlemagne was first buried in the abbey of St Claudius in the Marques (photos made during a random visit on holidays).
Why this competition still matter? To be the heir of the first European emperor is to legitimise one's claim to be a nation that now can rule the fate of Europe.
Inspired by: Pierre Legendre