Edict of Milan

Definition

The Edict of Milan was a proclamation issued in 313 CE by the Roman Emperors Constantine I and Licinius, granting religious tolerance throughout the empire, particularly towards Christians. This landmark declaration ended the persecution of Christians and allowed them to practice their faith openly, significantly altering the relationship between the Roman state and Christianity, which had faced intense scrutiny and repression before this time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Edict of Milan marked a significant turning point for Christianity, transitioning it from a persecuted faith to one that was accepted and supported by the Roman Empire.
2. This edict effectively legalized Christianity, allowing Christians to own property and build places of worship without fear of reprisal.
3. Before the Edict, Christians were often blamed for societal problems, leading to widespread persecution under emperors like Nero and Diocletian.
4. The proclamation was part of Constantine's broader strategy to unify the empire under one religion and reduce civil unrest.
5. The Edict of Milan set the foundation for the eventual establishment of Christianity as the state religion of the Roman Empire later in the 4th century.

Review Questions

• How did the Edict of Milan change the status of Christians within the Roman Empire?
  • The Edict of Milan fundamentally changed the status of Christians by granting them religious tolerance and ending their persecution. Prior to this edict, Christians faced severe oppression, including executions and property confiscation. With this declaration, they were allowed to practice their faith openly and could now own property, which greatly contributed to their growth and integration into Roman society.
• Evaluate the role of Constantine in both the issuance of the Edict of Milan and in shaping Christian doctrine following it.
  • Constantine played a pivotal role in both issuing the Edict of Milan and shaping early Christian doctrine. As a supporter of Christianity, his decree not only legalized the faith but also established an environment conducive for its growth. Following the edict, he convened the Council of Nicaea, where key theological issues were addressed, demonstrating his commitment to unifying Christian beliefs across the empire while solidifying his influence over church matters.
• Discuss how the Edict of Milan influenced later developments in Roman society and culture regarding religion.
  • The Edict of Milan had profound influences on later developments in Roman society and culture regarding religion by laying the groundwork for Christianity's dominance within the empire. It shifted public perception, allowing for wider acceptance of Christian values and practices among Romans. This transformation ultimately culminated in Emperor Theodosius I declaring Christianity as the official state religion by 380 CE, marking a definitive end to pagan practices and redefining Roman cultural identity around Christian principles.

Related terms

Constantine I: The first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity, who played a crucial role in the rise of Christianity within the Roman Empire and established Constantinople as a new capital.

Persecution of Christians: A series of oppressive actions taken against Christians in the Roman Empire, including imprisonment, torture, and execution, often fueled by political and social tensions.

Council of Nicaea:

A gathering convened by Constantine I in 325 CE that sought to address theological disputes within Christianity and resulted in the Nicene Creed.