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.