Constantine the Great is a titanic figure in Roman, and indeed world
history. Most famed for making Christianity the official religion of the
Roman Empire (and thus ensuring its survival and spread), and for moving
the seat of imperial rule to 'New Rome' (Constantinople), he is most
often studied for his religious and political impact. But it is often
forgotten that his power and success was made possible by the use of
armed force, in an impressive military career which is well worthy of
study in its own right. Constantine won victories over external
barbarian armies as well as defeating the Roman armies of his internal
rivals in civil war.
Elizabeth James sets the scene with a discussion of the nature of the
Roman army as it emerged and evolved from from the Third Century Crisis,
describing the make up of the armies, their weapons and tactics, and the
impact of Constantine's policies and reforms. She then examines each of
Constantine's campaigns and battles, (including the British campaign
which led to his proclamation as emperor at York) to show that he
deserves to be remembered as a great general as well as a great emperor.
This will be a welcome study of a neglected facet of this historical
colossus.
