The Conversion of Constantine and the Edict of Milan (313 CE) by Philip Davies offers a rigorous and insightful exploration of one of the most pivotal moments in Western history-the transformation of Christianity from a persecuted faith to an imperial religion. Tracing Constantine's rise to power, the dramatic Battle of the Milvian Bridge, and the groundbreaking Edict of Milan, this book examines the political, religious, and cultural forces that reshaped the Roman Empire and laid the foundation for Christendom.
Through meticulous analysis of primary sources and historical context, Philip Davies reveals the complexities behind Constantine's conversion, the delicate negotiations with co-emperor Licinius, and the profound impact on pagan religions and traditional Roman cults. The work explores the rise of Christian institutions, the expansion of ecclesiastical infrastructure, and the evolving relationship between church and state.
This authoritative study sheds new light on the legacy of Constantine's reign, offering readers a nuanced understanding of how imperial patronage and legal innovation altered the course of religious and political history, influencing the development of Western civilization for centuries to come.