Theodore Lector and the Arians of Constantinople

Abstract

This paper analyses and seeks to explain the prominence of the Arians in Theodore’s work. It argues that at the time he was writing, in the 520s, the Arian community in Constantinople remained a powerful force. The paper traces the history of this community and its links with Arians elsewhere, notably in Vandal North Africa. Tables at the end demonstrate that Theodore’s interest in, and hostility towards, Arians can be observed in both his Historia Tripartita and his Historia Ecclesiastica.