Dynastic Politics in the Age of Diocletian, Ad 284-311

This is the first book to focus on the Tetrarchy as an imperial dynasty.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In the year AD 293, the Roman world embarked on a daring and innovative experiment in governance. Four soldiers, namely Diocletian and Maximian, who held the position of senior emperors, along with Constantius and Galerius, who were considered junior emperors, shared the empire among themselves. This unique arrangement is known as the Tetrarchy. The Tetrarchy approached dynastic power in unconventional ways, showcasing a complex interplay of power dynamics. Diocletian and Maximian presented themselves as brothers, despite being unrelated, a deliberate strategy to consolidate their authority. They actively thwarted the dynastic ambitions of individual Tetrarchs and their sons, employing tactics such as imprisonment and assassination. The sons themselves played diverse roles, serving as hostages, symbols of imperial unity, and potential targets of assassination. Moreover, the significance of women in the representation of the empire was significantly diminished during this period.

This groundbreaking book is the first to delve into the Tetrarchy as an imperial dynasty, offering a fresh perspective by examining it through the lens of Rome's armies. The author presents the Tetrarchic dynasty as a military experiment, meticulously crafted by a network of provincial career soldiers and tailored to meet the specific needs of the various regional armies. Drawing upon a diverse range of evidence, including archaeological discoveries, coinage, statues, inscriptions, panegyrics, and invective, the author presents bold and novel interpretations of Tetrarchic dynastic politics. The book explores themes such as brotherhood, the role of empresses, imperial collegiality, military affairs, hereditary succession, and the dynamics of sons within Roman dynasties.

Through meticulous research and analysis, the author sheds light on the complex web of relationships and power struggles that characterized the Tetrarchy. The book challenges traditional narratives and offers a fresh perspective on this pivotal period in Roman history. It is a valuable contribution to the field of ancient history, providing insights into the complex dynamics of imperial power and the role of soldiers in shaping the course of empire.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474498654