the time. The opening of the work provides a detailed preface and introductory comments on the context surrounding Robert and Raoul's reigns, particularly the social and political fragmentation of France after the Carolingian dynasty's decline. Lauer discusses Robert's initial loyalty to King Charles the Simple and his subsequent rise to power. He also introduces Raoul, highlighting his lineage and early political interactions. The chapter sets the stage for understanding the complexities of political alliances, conflicts with the Normans, and the eventual election of Raoul as king. Overall, this beginning establishes a richly layered historical narrative that frames the key events and characters critical to understanding this tumultuous period in French history. (This is an automatically generated summary.)