Gratian, Roman emperor (d. 383)

Flavius Gratianus, more commonly known as Gratian, served as the Roman Emperor of the Western Roman Empire from 367 to 383 CE. Born on April 18, 359 CE, he was the eldest son of the formidable Emperor Valentinian I, and his reign, though relatively brief, was marked by significant military campaigns, a pivotal shift in religious policy, and ultimately, a tragic end on August 25, 383 CE.

Gratian's early life was closely intertwined with the military affairs of the empire. He accompanied his father, Valentinian I, on various campaigns along the crucial Rhine and Danube frontiers, gaining firsthand experience in the defense of Roman territories. In 367 CE, at the tender age of eight, Gratian was elevated to the rank of Augustus, a designation that formally recognized him as a co-emperor and the designated successor to his father. This early acclamation highlighted the importance placed on imperial lineage and the continuity of power.

A Divided Empire and Early Reign

Upon the unexpected death of his father, Valentinian I, in 375 CE, Gratian formally assumed the full responsibilities of governing the Western Roman Empire. The succession was, however, not straightforward. While Gratian, then sixteen years old, took charge of the western provinces, his much younger half-brother, Valentinian II, was also acclaimed emperor in Pannonia by a faction of the army. Though Gratian held the senior position and largely guided the affairs of the west, this dual emperorship created a complex dynamic. Meanwhile, his uncle, Valens, continued to rule as the undisputed Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire, maintaining the de facto division of the vast Roman territories that had become a practical necessity for efficient governance.

Gratian quickly demonstrated his military capabilities. In 378 CE, he led a successful campaign across the Rhine, confronting and decisively defeating the Lentienses, a branch of the Alamanni confederation, at the Battle of Argentovaria. This victory forced the tribe to surrender and helped stabilize a critical frontier, showcasing Gratian's leadership on the battlefield.

The Catastrophe of Adrianople and Theodosius' Rise

The year 378 CE, however, also brought one of the most devastating defeats in Roman history. In the Eastern Roman Empire, Emperor Valens was killed fighting the Visigoths at the catastrophic Battle of Adrianople. This profound loss left the Eastern Empire vulnerable and facing an existential threat from the barbarian tribes now ravaging its territories. Recognizing the immense challenge and the urgent need for a strong leader, Gratian made a momentous decision. In 379 CE, he elevated the capable general Theodosius to replace Valens as the Emperor of the East. This appointment of a non-dynastic figure to such a high office underscored the crisis the empire faced and Gratian's pragmatic approach to securing its future, a decision that would profoundly shape the course of Roman history.

A Radical Shift in Religious Policy

Gratian's reign is perhaps most remembered for his bold and unprecedented shift away from traditional Roman paganism towards Nicene Christianity. Unlike his predecessors, Gratian actively favored this orthodox branch of Christianity, which upheld the doctrine of the Trinity, over the polytheistic state religion that had been practiced for centuries.

• Edict of Thessalonica (380 CE): Though often attributed solely to Theodosius, Gratian was a crucial proponent. This landmark edict declared Nicene Christianity as the official state religion of the Roman Empire, effectively making adherence to it mandatory for all subjects and condemning other forms of Christianity (like Arianism) and paganism.
• Refusal of Pontifex Maximus: In a radical break with tradition, Gratian refused to accept the title and office of Pontifex Maximus, the chief priest of the traditional Roman state religion. This role had been held by Roman emperors since Augustus and symbolized their divine authority and connection to the Roman pantheon. Gratian's rejection signified a complete separation of the imperial office from its pagan religious roots.
• Removal of the Altar of Victory: Further signaling his commitment to Christianizing the empire, Gratian ordered the removal of the Altar of Victory from the Senate's Curia Julia in Rome. This altar, a symbol of Roman military success and a site for traditional pagan rites and oaths, had been a fixture in the Senate house for centuries. Its removal caused considerable controversy and alienation among the pagan senatorial aristocracy, who viewed it as an assault on Rome's ancient traditions and a slight to the city's glorious past.

These actions, particularly the religious reforms, marked a profound turning point in Roman history, signaling the end of official state paganism and the ascendancy of Christianity within the empire.

A Lasting Name: Gratianopolis

Beyond his military and religious policies, Gratian's name also left a lasting mark on the geography of Roman Gaul. The city of Cularo, situated on the Isère river, was renamed Gratianopolis in his honor. This name eventually evolved into what we know today as the modern French city of Grenoble, a testament to Gratian's influence and presence in the western provinces.

The Final Years and Tragic End

Gratian's progressive policies and reliance on certain barbarian factions within his army, however, began to alienate elements of his own military and the Roman aristocracy. In 383 CE, these underlying tensions culminated in a rebellion led by Magnus Maximus, a Roman general stationed in Britain. Magnus Maximus crossed into Gaul, challenging Gratian's authority. Faced with this usurper, Gratian marched his army towards Lutetia (modern-day Paris). However, during this critical confrontation, his own troops deserted him, a devastating blow that highlighted his waning support. Gratian was forced to flee, seeking refuge in the city of Lugdunum (modern-day Lyon), where he was subsequently captured and murdered on August 25, 383 CE, at the age of 24. His death plunged the Western Empire into further instability and paved the way for Magnus Maximus to briefly establish himself as a Western Roman Emperor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gratian

When and where was Gratian born?

Gratian was born on April 18, 359 CE, though the exact location of his birth is not definitively recorded, he was born into the imperial family of Valentinian I.

What part of the Roman Empire did Gratian rule?

Gratian served as the Emperor of the Western Roman Empire.

Who was Gratian's father?

Gratian was the eldest son of Emperor Valentinian I.

What was the significance of Gratian being raised to the rank of Augustus?

Being raised to the rank of Augustus in 367 CE formally designated Gratian as a co-emperor and the designated successor to his father, strengthening the imperial line and ensuring a smooth transition of power.

How did the Battle of Adrianople impact Gratian's reign?

The catastrophic defeat and death of Emperor Valens at the Battle of Adrianople in 378 CE left the Eastern Roman Empire vulnerable. In response, Gratian appointed Theodosius as the new Eastern Emperor, a crucial decision that stabilized the empire in a time of crisis.

What was Gratian's stance on traditional Roman religion?

Gratian was a staunch proponent of Nicene Christianity and actively moved away from traditional Roman paganism. He refused the title of Pontifex Maximus and ordered the removal of the Altar of Victory from the Roman Senate, signaling a significant break from centuries of Roman religious practice.

What was the Edict of Thessalonica?

The Edict of Thessalonica, issued in 380 CE, declared Nicene Christianity as the official state religion of the Roman Empire. While often associated with Theodosius, Gratian was instrumental in its promulgation.

What city was renamed after Gratian?

The city of Cularo in Roman Gaul was renamed Gratianopolis in his honor, which later evolved into the modern French city of Grenoble.

How did Gratian die?

Gratian was murdered on August 25, 383 CE, in Lyon (Lugdunum) after his army deserted him during a rebellion led by the usurper Magnus Maximus. He was just 24 years old.