Zosimus, New History 6

Zosimus (Greek Ζώσιμος): Early Byzantine, pagan author of a history of the Roman Empire, published in the first quarter of the sixth century CE.

Book 6

Honorius

The sixth book of Zosimus’ New History begins with the rebellion of Constantine III,note who leaves Britain, conquers Gaul, and sends his son to Spain. (Again, Zosimus is our main source.) Barbarians cross into Gaul.note Meanwhile, Alaric proceeds through Italy, captures Ostia,note besieges Rome, and forces the citizens to recognize a new emperor, Attalus. There are problems between this new ruler and Alaric, and he is put away.

In the final chapter, we learn that Constantine makes his son caesar, and read that Alaric tries to negotiate with Honorius. Athaulf makes an appearancenote – and at this point, the New History breaks off.

Zosimus’ main source in this book is the History by Olympiodorus.

Contents

  1. Embassy of Jovius
  2. Revolt of Constantine
  3. Barbarian invasion of Gaul
  4. Constantine sends Constans to Spain
  5. Germanic incursions and local revolts
  6. Alaric captures Ostia
  7. Attalus made emperor
  8. Attalus marches against Honorius
  9. Alaric considers the future
  10. Operations in northern Italy
  11. Famine in Rome
  12. Attalus dethroned
  13. Affairs in Picenum