In this fascinating discussion, Peter Sarris, a Professor at the University of Cambridge specializing in Late Antiquity, sheds light on the remarkable life of St. Helena. Born into poverty, she ascended to power as the mother of Emperor Constantine and played a crucial role in the Christianization of the Roman Empire. They explore her legendary discovery of the true cross, the shifting social status of women in ancient Rome, and the impact of her legacy on Christian pilgrimage. The complexities of her relationships and the tumult of her family further enrich her extraordinary story.
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Waugh's Fictionalized Helena
William Dalrymple reads the opening of Evelyn Waugh's historical novel, Helena.
The novel, while beautifully written, is historically inaccurate, starting with Helena's supposed lineage from "Old King Cole."
insights INSIGHT
Helena's Obscure Origins
St. Helena's birthplace is uncertain, contrary to Waugh's novel.
Her husband, Constantius I, died in York, but she likely never set foot in Britain.
insights INSIGHT
Helena's Likely Birthplace
Helena's birthplace is uncertain, with possibilities ranging from Syria to the Balkans.
The most likely location is near the Dardanelles, where Constantine later founded Hellenopolis.
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In 'Helena Augusta: Mother of the Empire', Julia Hillner offers a comprehensive biography of Helena, tracing her life from her birth on the Roman Empire's northeastern frontier to her death as Augusta. The book delves into Helena's role in dynastic politics and her portrayal in imperial art, highlighting the complexities of her life amidst male violence and changing female relationships. Hillner also examines the broader context of imperial women during the Tetrarchy and Theodosian Age, providing insights into the fragile and non-linear life courses of Roman women.
Born in poverty at a time when the Roman Empire was in danger of cracking up and disintegrating, Helena was set for a life of obscurity as a stable hand, bar maid, and, according to some, a prostitute. Yet, in the most improbable tale she rose through the social hierarchy to be proclaimed Empress, then later canonised, and declared by some as queen of the world. Not only was she mother and most trusted advisor to the Emperor Constantine, but she played a pivotal role in the conversion of the Roman Empire to Christianity. Whilst on pilgrimage in the Middle-East she was said to have discovered the one true cross and helped to set a template for Christian pilgrimages that would last for centuries. Listen as William and Anita are joined by Peter Sarris to discuss St Helena and her unprecedented rise through Roman society to the position of supreme power.
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