The Letters of Cassiodorus / Being a Condensed Translation of the Variae Epistolae of Magnus Aurelius Cassiodorus Senator

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

18590

Title

The Letters of Cassiodorus / Being a Condensed Translation of the Variae Epistolae of Magnus Aurelius Cassiodorus Senator

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Thomas Hodgkin's condensed translation of Cassiodorus's 'Variae' offers a unique window into sixth-century Ostrogothic Italy. This collection of letters, written in the name of Kings Theodoric, Theodahad, and Witigis, reveals the intricate interplay between Roman administration and Gothic rule. Hodgkin's scholarly notes provide essential context on the era's politics, law, and culture, making this an indispensable resource for understanding the transition of power in post-Roman Europe.

Summary up to 500 words

This volume presents a curated selection of letters from the 'Variae Epistolae' of Magnus Aurelius Cassiodorus, originally compiled to guide the Ostrogothic administration under King Theodoric and his successors. Thomas Hodgkin's introduction and translation focus on the complex mutual reactions of Roman and Teutonic minds in the sixth century. The letters cover a wide range of administrative topics, including the management of grain supplies to prevent famine, the regulation of markets and monopolies, the appointment of officials, and the conduct of war. Notable correspondence includes King Theodahad's plea to feed the starving populations of Liguria and Venetia, his grant of monopolies to ensure economic stability, and his detailed description of the elephant's natural history and political sagacity. Other letters address legal disputes, the elevation of King Witigis, and diplomatic overtures to Emperor Justinian. Hodgkin's notes elucidate the official ranks of the lower empire, the structure of the Praetorian Prefecture, and the textual history of the manuscripts. The collection serves as a primary source for the character and policy of Theodoric and the Gothic kings, illustrating their efforts to preserve 'Civilitas' and maintain order amidst the challenges of barbarian rule and external threats from the Byzantine Empire. The text reveals the administrative machinery of the Ostrogothic kingdom, where Cassiodorus, serving as Praetorian Prefect, worked to keep civil administration functioning during times of war and political transition. As the Gothic monarchy faced internal strife and external pressure from Belisarius, Cassiodorus wrote letters attempting to mitigate famine and maintain social order. The correspondence highlights the tension between Gothic military traditions and Roman bureaucratic efficiency, showcasing how the Ostrogothic rulers sought to blend their heritage with Roman legal and administrative practices to govern Italy effectively. The letters also provide insight into the daily lives of the populace, from the distribution of grain to the regulation of circus games and the treatment of ecclesiastics. Ultimately, the 'Variae' stands as a testament to the efforts of Theodoric and his ministers to preserve civilization and stability in a volatile era.

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Categories

• History
• Italy