Coronation Rites

This work surveys the historical development, forms, and meanings of coronation rites from their ancient imperial origins through diverse medieval and later Western and Eastern recensions. It compares ceremonial elements across Byzantine, Roman, and various regional traditions, traces English and French developments, and treats other national practices, papal coronation, and Protestant adaptations. Detailed attention is given to rites' texts, ceremonial acts such as anointing, investiture, vestments, and regalia, and to the interrelation of different local forms; the volume also provides documentary references, plates, and indices to support further research.