hist302 military anarchy the third century crisis and reorganization
Choose one and respond. (250 words)
1). Study the Roman Empire after Pax Romana to 235 AD. Why do historians consider this period to be one of military monarchy and poor relations with the Senate? Do you believe this was a period of provincial upsurge and orientalization of the Roman Empire? Why or why not?
2). Study the regions outside of the Roman borders (limes)? Picking one of these sectors (north, east or south), describe Rome’s strategic concern and what the relationship was between Rome and this sector in the third century?
3). Study the Roman Empire from 235 to 284. Identify and describe one reason this period was a period of crisis. In your estimation, how close did Rome come to falling?
4). What problems faced the Roman Empire in the 280s and how did Diocletian end the period of chaos in the third century? How does Diocletian’s ruling style compare to emperors of the Pax Romana?
5). Examine the rule and reforms of Diocletian. Describe how Diocletian brought order to the Roman Empire in the late third century and the various reforms he instituted to shore up the Roman state. Do you believe these reforms led to the eventual breakup of the Roman Empire? Why or why not?
6). What was Constantine’s relationship with the Christian faith and what policies did he institute that allowed this faith to grow in the fourth century? Do you consider Constantine’s relationship with Christianity to be based on a deep-seated faith or political expediency?
