Imperator, Deus: The Wars of Constantine the Great and the Foundations of the Christian Church

by John R. Prann Jr.

It is 312 AD outside ancient Rome as Emperor Flavius Valerius Aurelius Constantinus Augustus stands above the Tiber River and watches his enemy, Maxentius, and over one hundred thousand soldiers cross Milvian Bridge and take position on the battlefield. Unfortunately, forty-year-old Constantine no longer feels like the invincible god his enemies and some friends believe he is. But as he stands in the midst of a civil war, Constantine knows now is not the time for doubts. As he capitalizes on his opponent's smallest mistakes and executes strategies that reflect his perception and genius, Constantine brutally battles within two global wars that not only include Maxentius, but also several other enemies with large forces. While he consolidates his power on the battlefield, Constantine must fight the fissures within an emerging Christian Church controlled by two popes and countless bishops. But as Emperor Constantine grows older and becomes a devoted father, battles erupt within his own family that lead to dramatic changes. Imperator, Deus shares the fascinating historical tale of the first Christian Emperor of the Roman Empire from his victory at the Milvian Bridge in October 312 AD to his death twenty-five years later.

Genres: History

298 pages, Hardcover

Published November 8, 2016

Reviews

[Eduardo Garcia-Gaspar · Rating 1 out of 5]

El personaje es fascinante. Sus tiempos de enorme interés. Y lo compré con la intención de conocer más de Constantino, lo que no logré con esa obra.
Y es que no me imagino que los personajes de esos tiempos hablen en inglés, con expresiones actuales y así se haga durante todo el libro. Diálogos inventados, aunque basados en hechos y sucesos reales. Una decepción que terminé con esfuerzo. No lo recomiendo.

[Paul Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written account of Constantine and his rise to become the sole Emperor of Rome. It is also the story of his involvement in the Arian controversy that culminated in the writing of The Nicene Creed. The author's presentation of the debates over the true nature of Jesus are as enlightening as they are entertaining. I came away with the sense that, yes, this is how they could have happened. The descriptions of the main characters taking part; the atmosphere surrounding the, at times tumultuous, gatherings; the drama between Constantine and the opposing factions, are all factors in making this a nice page turning work. In addition, the author's rendering of the military campaigns of Constantine are nicely detailed events punctuated with scenes of bravery, cunning, and the camaraderie of Constantine's personal guard. All in all, a well researched and produced story. One that gives the reader a chance to look back at these defining historical moments and ponder the significance of Constantine, and the future effects of the creed, and the empowering of the church. 4.3 stars