Visigothic Monarchy Structure and Toledo Councils
Nature of the Visigothic Monarchy
The nature of the Visigothic monarchy was not clearly defined in the fourth century when contact with Rome began. There was a hereditary title within a family, although the iudex acted as the leader of the assembly. Presently, the Visigothic monarchy incorporates authoritarian elements of the Roman Emperor. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the Visigoth kings adopted the titles, taxes, and outward signs of the Roman emperor.
Requirements for Kingship
The requirements to be elected king were:
- Being male, free, and Goth (not just Visigoth).
- Not having been convicted of the infamous punishment of decalvación.
- Majority was not required.
Church Influence and Royal Power
After conversion to Catholicism, the Visigothic kingdom entered a new stage, decisively influenced by Saint Isidore of Seville in configuring the royal and administrative organization. Isidore instilled political theories where the new bond was the Church, to which the king was subject, enforced by coercion (the law), which priests could not achieve with mere words. The king is a representative of God, from whom he receives power. He must administer justice, assisting with justice and mercy, which are the essential virtues distinguishing the king from the tyrant.
Attributes, titles, and ceremonies surrounding the Visigothic royalty also reveal the mix of Roman, Germanic, and canonical influences.
The Councils of Toledo
The Councils of Toledo also played a significant political and administrative role, both through their rules and the civil laws passed by the monarch, especially after Recaredo's conversion to Catholicism. This political and administrative importance stemmed from two real powers exerted over the Councils:
- The king convened the councils and set the topics.
- The king ratified all or some of the canons, turning them into civil law.
Royal Ratification and Legal Dissemination
Royal power was demonstrated by the ratification of conciliar canons via lex in confirmatione Concilii. This provided two ways for ecclesiastical canons to become civil law, showcasing the king's power even in ecclesiastical matters. Furthermore, the king used the councils as a venue for the dissemination of law.
A significant number of members of the Aula Regia were bishops, meaning these important public functions in the Visigothic state were exercised both individually and judicially by the clergy. It is notable how the Visigothic Church adapted the structure and figures of Roman law, absorbing influences and developments occurring in the state, both in its hierarchy and in the use of its figures. Conversely, the king used the bishops for the training and inspection of officials, especially prosecutors and courts.