Synesius of Cyrene (Philosopher and Bishop)

Abstract

Synesius (c.365-370-412-413 A.D.),wrote more than 150 letters in total, some of which record the addresses he gave across urban and rural Cyrenaica. From these lettershis role as Bishop of Ptolemais in the treatment of events in Cyrenaica during Roman imperial rule was evident. He also describes the attacks made by Berber tribes and his part in combatting them.[1] In addition, Synesius authored a number of poems and philosophical works, including De Providentia (On Providence), De Regno (On Kingship), Dion (on Dio Cocceianus, a Roman philosopher) and De insomniis (On Dreams). This paper analysesSynesius’Letters, more generally, offer a broader understanding of theLibyan community in Cyrenaica during the fourth century,includingmoral corruption,political and militarydeterioration, the administrative chaos, and its impact on the personal life of Synesius. [1]Synesius of Cyrene (1926) The Letters of Synesius of Cyrene, trans. Fitzgerald, A, Oxford University Press, London, pp. 5-7.