Ammianus marcellinus biography of rory leave

Ancient Roman historian Country: Italy

Content:

1. Early Life and Origins
2. Military Service and Historical Work
3. Autobiographical Information
4. Ethnic and Cultural Background
5. Place of Birth and Social Status
6. Education and Historical Contributions

Early Life and Origins

Ammiianus Marcellinus, a renowned ancient Roman historian, was of Syrian Greek descent.

His exact date of birth remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from to CE.

Military Service and Historical Work

Marcellinus participated in Rome's wars against the Persians in the mid-4th century and also served in the empire's Western provinces.

Ammianus marcellinus biography of rory Ammianus Marcellinus, occasionally anglicised as Ammian [1] [2] (Greek: Αμμιανός Μαρκελλίνος; born c. , died c. – ), was a Roman soldier and historian who wrote the penultimate major historical account surviving from antiquity (preceding Procopius).

His sole surviving work, titled "Res Gestae" ("The Deeds" or "Roman History"), is a Latin account of his experiences.

Autobiographical Information

Little autobiographical information is known about Marcellinus beyond what is contained in his "Res Gestae." He refers to himself as a "young man" ("adulescens") in CE, suggesting a birth date in the mid to late s.

Ethnic and Cultural Background

Despite writing in Latin, Marcellinus was a Greek, as evidenced by his references to his heritage in "Res Gestae." His name, "Ammiianus," has Anatolian origins, suggesting that his ancestors were descendants of Hellenized populations in Asia Minor.

Place of Birth and Social Status

Marcellinus was born in Antioch, Syria, a major city in the Roman East.

His aristocratic background is evident in his writings, where he expresses contempt for those of lesser social standing. He also laments the lack of respect accorded to "the newcomer of noble birth" in Rome.

Education and Historical Contributions

As a member of the provincial aristocracy, Marcellinus received a privileged education, enabling him to pursue his literary and historical pursuits.

His "Res Gestae" remains a valuable source of information on late Roman history, providing insights into the politics, wars, and social conditions of his time.