It's the year 306 and Rome is politically divided; distant threats from surrounding nations have tamed "the never ending destiny of Rome". The Roman population is more concerned with Colosseum entertainments than technological and philosophical innovations. Constantine, the world's first Christian emperor, rises to this desperate situation and unifies the Roman Empire under the Christian banner. The Roman empire is forever indebted to this pious imperial figure.
However 1700 years later a new figure emerges; historian Susan Wise Bauer presents us with an different story. She questions the legitimacy of Constantine's faith; perhaps Christianity is merely a political tool that allows Romans to fully serve "two identities": Christianity and Rome. Christianity has the ability to bind all citizens to a cause that both transcends and fully supports the Roman Empire. This ability is extremely valuable and important to power hungry Constantine. Constantine no longer has to deal with a disloyal African Roman citizen, because the Roman people now believe they are serving an Empire of God. Both Politics and Religion are merged, both are never the same. The force of fate" that once guided brave Aeneas is replaced. A new purpose drives the Roman Empire: "The will of God."
Ben: I like your post because not only does it show your knowledge of the chapter, but you also demonstrate that "History" is always a matter of interpretation. The historian actually has a tremendous responsibility when he or she embarks upon a work. How would you describe SWB's historiographical approach?
ReplyDeleteSo, was Constantine, then, simply a pragmatist, who saw the latest “fad”, Christianity as a means of cementing his power and authority? Do you see any lessons for today in this? Are all empires based upon human values doomed to crumble? (“Sceptre and Crown must tumble down” – Death the Leveller by John Shirley [1596-1666]). Empires build by the Lord, however……”The flower fadeth, the grass withereth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever” – Isaiah 40:8
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