Lactantius
Abstract
This chapter features Lactantius’ copy of the Edict of Milan (313 ce ), a law in which emperors Constantine and Licinius proclaimed religious toleration throughout the Roman Empire, thus rolling back legal restrictions against Christians and their religious practices. A Christian rhetorician, Lactantius offers the most detailed contemporary description in Latin of this turning point in Roman history. His work illuminates the evolving relationship between empire and religion and the new role Christianity would play in imperial politics and society.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Classical Antiquity Studies
Historical and Religious Studies of Rome
Biblical Studies and Interpretation
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 578–579
- Publication date
- 3 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter