Constantine the Great

Definition

Constantine the Great was a Roman emperor who reigned from 306 to 337 AD and is best known for being the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. His reign marked a significant turning point in the relationship between Christianity and the Roman Empire, leading to the widespread acceptance of the religion and significant developments in Early Christian art and architecture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Constantine moved the capital of the Roman Empire from Rome to Byzantium in 330 AD, renaming it Constantinople, which became a vital center for Christian culture.
2. He is credited with establishing the first Christian basilicas, which influenced Early Christian architectural styles.
3. The conversion of Constantine is often seen as pivotal in transitioning Christianity from a persecuted faith to one that held significant power within the empire.
4. His support led to the construction of important religious sites, such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which became a pilgrimage destination.
5. Constantine's reign was marked by efforts to unify the empire under a single faith, leading to both increased religious tolerance and conflicts between differing Christian sects.

Review Questions

• How did Constantine’s conversion to Christianity impact the political landscape of the Roman Empire?
  • Constantine's conversion to Christianity transformed the political landscape of the Roman Empire by legitimizing Christianity as a dominant faith. This led to a shift in policies where Christians began to receive favor and privileges that were previously denied to them. The Edict of Milan in 313 AD allowed for religious tolerance, which significantly changed how Christians were treated within Roman society and strengthened their influence over time.
• Discuss the significance of Constantine's establishment of Constantinople in relation to Early Christian art and architecture.
  • The establishment of Constantinople marked a new era for Early Christian art and architecture, as it became a focal point for Christian culture and artistic expression. As a new capital, Constantinople facilitated the construction of grand basilicas and churches that incorporated innovative architectural styles. This influence not only shaped religious spaces in the city but also set a precedent for future Christian architecture across Europe.
• Evaluate how Constantine’s actions at the Council of Nicaea reflect his approach to governance and religion during his reign.
  • Constantine's actions at the Council of Nicaea demonstrate his commitment to establishing a unified Christian doctrine as part of his governance strategy. By convening this council, he aimed to resolve theological disputes within Christianity, particularly against Arianism. This effort highlights his belief that unity within Christianity was crucial for political stability in the empire, as conflicting beliefs could lead to civil unrest. Ultimately, his involvement solidified his role not just as a ruler but also as a key figure in shaping early Christian orthodoxy.

Related terms

Edict of Milan: A proclamation issued in 313 AD by Constantine that granted religious tolerance for Christianity and effectively legalized it within the Roman Empire.

Byzantium: An ancient city that became Constantinople under Constantine, which later served as the capital of the Byzantine Empire and a center for Christian art and architecture.

Council of Nicaea: A gathering of Christian bishops convened by Constantine in 325 AD to address various issues within the Church, including the Arian controversy, leading to the formulation of the Nicene Creed.