Court Politics, Imperial Authority, and the Role of the Emperor in the Reign of Theodosius II

Abstract

This thesis examines the role of the East Roman Emperor in relation to the court and the expression of imperial authority during the early fifth century CE. The thesis primarily focuses on the reign of Theodosius II (r.408-450), a crucial period in which the eastern empire retained integrity and central control just as the West began to fragment.

This thesis will primarily argue that Theodosius’ reign was critical to maintenance of the authority and centrality of the imperial office. This pushes back against both ancient narratives and modern scholarship that tend to brand Theodosius as a weak ruler, dominated by eunuchs and women. I will posit that Theodosius’ reign not only saw continuities in aspects of imperial behaviour and court systems dating to the previous century, but also innovations that served to maintain the relevance of the imperial office. Within the court, a multipolar, largely civilianised, system centralised competition around Theodosius’ person, while Theodosius himself ruthlessly dealt with individuals who rose to threaten his position. I will argue that the prevalence of powerful eunuchs and women at the Theodosian court was not a symptom of imperial weakness, but a means by which the emperor could delegate authority without fear of repercussion and thereby further shield his status. More broadly, the ideology of Theodosius’ regime focused on ideals of universality, unity, and order, not only trumpeted through his self-presentation, but also through his dynastic politicking, domestic reforms, and ecclesiastical policy. All of this combined to ensure that, on his death, the imperial office in the East remained as authoritative and relevant as ever.