The Diffusion and Use of the Institutio canonicorum in Ninth-Century West Francia. A Study of the Preserved Manuscripts

A systematic analysis of ninth-century manuscripts reveals that the Institutio canonicorum (IC), established at the Council of Aachen in 816, experienced widespread diffusion and sustained use across West Francia. By the mid-ninth century, numerous copies had been produced in various scriptoria, indicating significant adoption beyond its initial novelty. These manuscripts, primarily distributed to cathedral chapters, often included additional chapters tailored to local needs while adhering to the original text. The study also shows that these codices were intensively studied and annotated over time, reflecting enduring engagement with the Carolingian rule of life long after the reform councils.

ten Haaf, L. (2024). The Diffusion and Use of the Institutio canonicorum in Ninth-Century West Francia. A Study of the Preserved Manuscripts. Sacris Erudiri, 63, 281–319. https://doi.org/10.1484/j.se.5.150135