Episode CCXXXIII - The Rise of Diocles (Diocletian I)

Lactantius's "On the Deaths of the Persecutors" offers a Christian perspective on the reigns and deaths of late 3rd and early 4th-century Roman emperors who persecuted Christians. The work blends historical accounts with vivid descriptions of divine retribution, portraying the emperors' demise as consequences of their actions against Christians. It provides valuable insights into the political and religious climate of the era, supplementing other historical sources. Lactantius's writing style is characterized by its rhetorical flair and passionate defense of Christianity. The book remains a significant source for understanding the Great Persecution and the early Christian experience under Roman rule.

Eusebius of Caesarea's "Ecclesiastical History" is a foundational work in early Christian historiography. It chronicles the history of the Christian Church from its origins to the early 4th century, providing valuable insights into the development of Christian doctrine, the lives of early Christians, and the relationship between the Church and the Roman Empire. The work is structured chronologically, covering major events, theological debates, and the lives of prominent figures. Eusebius's perspective is inherently Christian, shaping his interpretation of events and his selection of sources. The "Ecclesiastical History" remains a crucial primary source for understanding the early Church and its place in the Roman world.