AUTHOR APPROVED 'This rich, clear analytical narrative of two centuries of dramatic change unravels the complexities of seismic religious transformation, major cultural realignment as well as the political and military changes that shifted Europe's focus from Rome to Byzantium and that still influence the shape of Europe. An excellent overview of the period.' Michael Whitby, University of Birmingham The final dramatic centuries of Roman history Between the deaths of the Emperors Julian (363) and Justinian (565), the Roman Empire underwent momentous changes. Most obviously, control of the west was lost to barbarian groups during the fifth century, and although parts were recovered by Justinian, the empire's centre of gravity shifted irrevocably to the east, with its focal point now the city of Constantinople. Equally important was the increasing dominance of Christianity not only in religious life, but also in politics, society and culture. Doug Lee charts these and other significant developments which contributed to the transformation of ancient Rome and its empire into Byzantium and the early medieval west. By emphasising the resilience of the east during late antiquity and the continuing vitality of urban life and the economy, this volume offers an alternative perspective to the traditional paradigm of decline and fall. Key features: - Provides a clear analytical narrative of pivotal political, military, and religious developments - Complements this with an examination of overarching trends in urban life and the economy - Gives particular attention to the dynamics of political and religious power and of Roman-barbarian relations during the fifth century A. D. Lee is Associate Professor in Classical Studies at the University of Nottingham.