Theodosian Code

( 438 ) Commentary by Bradley A. Skeen, Ph.D.

“We [the Emperors] decree that … a collection shall be made of all the constitutions that were issued by the renowned Constantine, by the sainted Emperors after him, and by Us and which rest upon the force of edicts or sacred imperial law of general force.” - Book I
“We leave to owners and patrons no avenue of recovery if good will, the friend of compassion, has taken up children exposed in a measure to death, for no one can call his own a child whom he scorned when it was perishing.” - Book V
“I [Constantine] Myself will hear everything; I Myself will conduct an investigation; and if the charge should be proved, I Myself will avenge Myself.” - Book IX
“If any person should hasten the fate of a parent …, he shall be sewed in a leather sack and, confined within its deadly closeness, he shall share the companionship of serpents.” - Book IX
“We furthermore grant to you as prefect the authority that, if any student in the City should fail to conduct himself as the dignity of a liberal education demands, he shall be publicly flogged, immediately put on board a boat, expelled from the City and returned home.” - Book XIV
“Bloody spectacles displease Us amid public peace and domestic tranquility. Wherefore … We wholly forbid the existence of gladiators.” - Book XV

Marble relief showing Roman gladiators (Yale University Art Gallery)

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