The Post-Theodosian Period: A Time of Change and Upheaval in the Roman Empire

Post-Theodosian refers to the period of time after the reign of Theodosius I, who ruled the Roman Empire from 378 to 395 AD. This period saw a significant shift in the political and religious landscape of the empire, as the influence of Christianity grew and the power of the emperor began to decline.

Theodosius I was the last emperor to rule over a unified Roman Empire, and his death marked the beginning of a period of division and fragmentation. The empire was divided into two parts, with the Western Roman Empire being ruled by a series of weak and short-lived emperors, while the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, continued to be ruled by strong and capable leaders.

During this period, the influence of Christianity grew rapidly, and the church became an increasingly important institution in the empire. Theodosius I had made Christianity the official religion of the empire, and his successors continued to support and promote the church. This led to a significant increase in the power and wealth of the church, as well as a growing number of converts.

However, the post-Theodosian period was also marked by political instability and conflict. The Western Roman Empire was repeatedly invaded by barbarian tribes, such as the Visigoths and the Vandals, who eventually sacked Rome in 455 AD. The Eastern Roman Empire, on the other hand, continued to be ruled by strong emperors, such as Arcadius and Theodosius II, who worked to maintain the empire's territorial integrity and defend against external threats.

Overall, the post-Theodosian period was a time of significant change and upheaval in the Roman Empire, marked by the growth of Christianity, political instability, and conflict with barbarian tribes. It set the stage for the eventual fall of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of the Byzantine Empire.