A chronological biography traces the life and reign of a great Frankish ruler from his family origins through ascent to imperial authority. The narrative opens with background on predecessors and the evolution of the mayoral office, then follows military campaigns, diplomatic exchanges, and internal revolts that shaped his rule. Chapters treat wars with neighboring peoples, efforts to convert pagan populations, the action at Roncesvalles, relations with the papacy and eastern courts, and his coronation as emperor. The work concludes with an account of his later years, an assessment of political results, and appendices discussing sources and providing genealogical tables.