Production and Prosperity in the Theodosian Period

edited by I. Jacobs

Book cover: Production and Prosperity in the Theodosian Period

Extent: 413 pages

Publisher: Peeters Publishers

Subjects: Classical Studies, Mediterranean Archaeology

Series: Interdisciplinary Studies in Ancient Culture and Religion

Series volume number: 14

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(January 2014)

ISBN: 9789042930124

Price: $84.00

In stock

Despite the large increase in material evidence datable to the Theodosian period (379-455 C.E.), textual sources still dominate our view of the period. This has led to a pretty bleak picture made up of foreign invasions, loss of territory, a weak ruler dynasty, a state-driven distribution system, and declining cities. And yet, many regions of the Roman Empire seem to have been doing quite well. For this reason, this volume aims at a reevaluation of the prosperity of the Roman Empire under the Theodosians. Archaeological, historical, epigraphic and numismatic research is combined to investigate the vitality and socio-economic potential of distinct regions of the empire; to explore the relative importance of cities, villages, fortresses and estates in patterns of purchase and consumption; to gain insights into the mechanisms and forces underlying production, distribution and consumption of both staple goods and luxury products; and, eventually, to offer explanations for the general condition and functioning of the empire.


Despite the large increase in material evidence datable to the Theodosian period (379-455 C.E.), textual sources still dominate our view of the period. This has led to a pretty bleak picture made up of foreign invasions, loss of territory, a weak ruler dynasty, a state-driven distribution system, and declining cities. And yet, many regions of the Roman Empire seem to have been doing quite well. For this reason, this volume aims at a re-evaluation of the prosperity of the Roman Empire under the Theodosii. Archaeological, historical, epigraphic and numismatic research are combined to investigate the vitality and socio-economic potential of distinct regions of the empire; to explore the relative importance of cities, villages, fortresses and estates in patterns of purchase and consumption; to gain insights into the mechanisms and forces underlying production, distribution and consumption of both staple goods and luxury products; and, eventually, to offer explanations for the general condition and functioning of the empire.

  • Edited by I Jacobs