HIST 210: The Early Middle Ages, 284-1000
Lecture 02 - The Crisis of the Third Century and the Diocletianic Reforms. Professor Freedman outlines the problems facing the Roman Empire in the third century. The Persian Sassanid dynasty in the East and various Germanic tribes in the West threatened the Empire as never before. Internally, the Empire struggled with the problem of succession, an economy wracked by inflation, and the decline of the local elite which had once held it together. Having considered these issues, Professor Freedman then moves on to the reforms enacted under Diocletian to stabilize the Empire. He attempted to solve the problem of succession by setting up a system of joint rule called the Tetrarchy, to stabilize the economy through tax reform, and to protect the frontiers through militarization. Although many of his policies failed - some within his lifetime - Diocletian nevertheless saved the Roman Empire from collapse. (from oyc.yale.edu)
| Lecture 02 - The Crisis of the Third Century and the Diocletianic Reforms |
| Time | Lecture Chapters |
| [00:00:00] | 1. Introduction and Logistics |
| [00:01:04] | 2. Third Century Crisis and Barbarian Invasions |
| [00:09:39] | 3. The Problem of Succession |
| [00:17:05] | 4. The Problem of Inflation |
| [00:22:17] | 5. The Ruin of The Local Elite |
| [00:25:37] | 6. Diocletian and his Reforms |
| References |
| Lecture 2 - The Crisis of the Third Century and the Diocletianic Reforms Instructor: Professor Paul H. Freedman. Transcript [html]. Audio [mp3]. Download Video [mov]. |
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