Charles the Simple,Robert of Neustria,and the vexilla of Saint‐Denis

A recent consensus holds that the deposition of Charles the Simple by Robert of Neustria in 922 was the result of a sudden deterioration in their relationship that had nothing to do with any earlier hostilities. A close examination of contemporary diplomas suggests a very different story. In 898, Charles did not faithfully implement the agreement he had made with Robert's brother Odo that gave him the succession and he resisted recognizing Robert's lay abbacies, in particuar that of Saint‐Denis. These grievances shaped the entirety of the reign, and their memory remained quite alive at the time of the deposition.