Theodosius I (347–395 CE) Flashcards
Who was Theodosius I?
Theodosius I, also known as Theodosius the Great, was a Roman emperor who ruled from 379 to 395 CE.
When was Theodosius I born?
Theodosius I was born on January 11, 347 CE.
What was Theodosius’ greatest religious achievement?
He made Christianity the official state religion of the Roman Empire through the Edict of Thessalonica in 380 CE.
What council did Theodosius preside over in 381 CE?
The Second Council of Constantinople.
Fill in the blank: Theodosius I was the last emperor to rule over a _____ Roman Empire.
united
Which half of the Roman Empire did Theodosius reunite in 394?
Both the Eastern and Western halves.
How did Theodosius influence the fall of the Western Roman Empire?
He divided the empire between his two sons after his death, which contributed to the Western Empire’s decline.
What religious group did Theodosius I support and make the state religion?
Nicene Christianity.
What did Theodosius do after the Massacre of Thessalonica?
He performed public penance under the guidance of Bishop Ambrose.
What was the controversial treaty Theodosius made with the Goths?
He allowed the Goths to settle within Roman borders after a peace agreement.
Who excommunicated Theodosius after the Massacre of Thessalonica?
Bishop Ambrose of Milan.
Fill in the blank: Theodosius’ reign marked the decline of _____ in the Roman Empire.
paganism
Why is Theodosius’ legacy important to Christianity?
He made Christianity the dominant religion of the Roman Empire, laying the foundation for Christian Europe.
What were the names of Theodosius’ two sons who inherited the empire?
Arcadius and Honorius.
How did Theodosius influence the relationship between the Church and the state?
He showed the increasing power of the Church by doing public penance, indicating church authority could challenge imperial power.
