...This chapter offers contrasting portrayals of Theoderic the Great as a Gothic “warlord” and a ruler of Goths and Romans alike. This contrast points to a tension that followed Theoderic his entire life. The chapter briefly explores questions arising from this contrast as well as to other details...

...This chapter focuses on the consolidation of Theoderic the Great's rule. It begins with the twofold task of retaining the loyalty of the warriors who had come with Theoderic to Italy and simultaneously motivating the native Italian elites to cooperate. Probably in the very first years of his reign...

...This chapter examines aspects of Theoderic the Great's rule. It begins with an exploration of Theoderic's court, and in doing so, discusses the complicated basis of Theoderic's legitimacy as ruler, as multiple parties have multiple different expectations of him as a ruler, and he must be able...

...This chapter turns to historical depictions of Theoderic the Great and how he was treated by scholars in various time periods. It starts with one of Theoderic's longtime chroniclers, Cassiodorus, and the historical milieu in which he lived, as well as the state of his manuscripts during his life...

...In the year 493, the leader of a vast confederation of Gothic warriors, their wives, and children personally cut down Odoacer, the man famous for deposing the last Roman emperor in 476. That leader became Theoderic the Great (454–526). This engaging history of his life and reign immerses readers...

...This chapter explores writings about Theoderic the Great from his time. It first considers literature as a historic source and the challenges that come with using sources whose context with which modern scholars are no longer familiar. More written sources survive for Theoderic and his Goths than...