Emperor Constantine I

Definition

Emperor Constantine I, also known as Constantine the Great, was a Roman emperor who ruled from 306 to 337 AD. He is most notable for being the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity and for establishing Constantinople as a new capital, which became a significant center for the Christian faith and culture, particularly influencing the development of important religious sites like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Constantine's conversion to Christianity was influenced by his vision before the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, where he reportedly saw a cross in the sky with the words 'In this sign, conquer.'
2. He played a critical role in promoting Christianity throughout the Roman Empire by supporting church construction, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built on what was believed to be the site of Jesus' burial and resurrection.
3. Under his rule, Christianity transitioned from being a persecuted faith to becoming the favored religion of the empire, fundamentally altering Roman religious practices.
4. Constantine's founding of Constantinople was strategic; it provided a defensive location and became an economic powerhouse, influencing Christian art and architecture.
5. The establishment of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre marked a significant moment in Christian pilgrimage, making it one of the most revered sites for Christians around the world.

Review Questions

• How did Emperor Constantine I's conversion to Christianity influence the religious landscape of the Roman Empire?
  • Emperor Constantine I's conversion to Christianity had profound effects on the religious landscape of the Roman Empire. It led to the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance and allowed Christians to worship freely without fear of persecution. This shift transformed Christianity from an underground faith into a prominent religion endorsed by the state, significantly increasing its followers and changing Roman society's approach to religion.
• Discuss the significance of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in relation to Constantine's reign and his legacy.
  • The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is significant as it represents Constantine's commitment to establishing Christianity within the Roman Empire. By commissioning its construction on what was believed to be Jesus' burial site, he not only solidified his support for Christianity but also created a major pilgrimage destination that would enhance Christian identity. This act played a crucial role in shaping Christian practices and architecture in subsequent centuries.
• Evaluate how Emperor Constantine I's policies set a precedent for future Byzantine rulers regarding church-state relations.
  • Emperor Constantine I established foundational principles regarding church-state relations that would influence Byzantine rulers for centuries. His support for Christianity not only legitimized its role within imperial governance but also set a precedent for future emperors to view themselves as protectors of the faith. This intertwining of authority meant that subsequent rulers often used their positions to promote Christian doctrine and intervene in ecclesiastical matters, effectively shaping Byzantine culture and politics around religious principles.

Related terms

Constantinople: The capital city founded by Constantine, which became a major hub for trade and Christian scholarship, and played a pivotal role in the history of the Byzantine Empire.

Edict of Milan: A decree issued by Constantine in 313 AD that granted religious tolerance for Christianity within the Roman Empire, marking a significant turning point in the relationship between Christianity and Rome.

Council of Nicaea: A pivotal council convened by Constantine in 325 AD to address various theological disputes within Christianity, leading to the Nicene Creed and greater unity in the early Church.