Archdruid Eileen: Today we remember the Battle of Chrysopolis - fought between Constantine and his brother-in-law and colleague Licinius. This is a solemn moment as we remember that these two rulers jointly issued the Edict of Milan. That they were joined by bonds of kinship. That when the Roman Empire could have been organising to protect itself, it was torn asunder by ambition once again. That later, Constantine betrayed his solemn oath by having Licinius - and subsequently, Licinius's son, Constantine's own nephew - executed. That despite following the Prince of Peace, Constantine was a man of war. That..... what's that noise?
Beaker Folk: You're not Caesar, you're not Caesar, you're not Caesar anymore.
Other Beaker Folk: Licinius when you're winning - you're only Licinius when you're winning.
Archdruid: Oh forget it. Let the mayhem begin.
Warfare is a fascinating subject. Despite the dubious morality of using violence to achieve personal or political aims. It remains that conflict has been used to do just that throughout recorded history.
ReplyDeleteYour article is very well done, a good read.