This concise biography of Barbarossa offers a refreshingly new perspective on the legendary Staufer emperor. Knut Görich frees Frederick I Barbarossa from the nationalistic interpretations of the 19th century and presents the protagonist in light of his political decisions, military conflicts, his tense relationship with the Pope, and particularly as the guardian of the honor of the Empire – the honor imperii. The close connection between this notion and the emperor's own honor, as well as the careful balancing required with the honor of the imperial princes, forms another focal point of the narrative. The equally lucid and engaging description of Barbarossa's life and actions portrays one of the most significant rulers of the Middle Ages as a true virtuoso when it came to governance, displays of power, maintaining rank, and demonstrating status.