Myth & Constantine the Great

"Myth & Constantine the Great" is a scholarly examination of the legendary and historical legacy of the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. Vacher Burch delves into the complex layers of myth-making that surrounded Constantine, separating the historical figure from the hagiographical narratives that emerged in the centuries following his reign. The work explores how the intersection of imperial power and religious transformation gave rise to a collection of myths that shaped the ideological foundations of the early Church and the Byzantine Empire.

Burch analyzes key events, such as the vision at the Milvian Bridge and the Edict of Milan, to understand how these stories were constructed and for what political or theological purposes. By scrutinizing primary sources and contemporary accounts, the author provides a critical perspective on the evolution of Constantine's image from a pragmatic ruler to a divinely ordained figure. This volume is an essential resource for students of Roman history, theology, and the development of Christian tradition, offering deep insights into how historical reality is often shaped by the powerful force of religious and political legend.

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