The Life of the Blessed Emperor Constantine

This Greek panegyric was written in honor of Constantine the Great—the first Roman emperor to espouse Christianity—giving an account of his life, rule, and works. The Life of the Blessed Emperor Constantine was composed in the fourth century by a contemporary, Eusebius of Caesarea, who became known as he “Father of Church History.” His detailed, though generous, account provides one of the most comprehensive sources for learning about Constantine’s religious policies as emperor. The work also engages in apologetics and provides a bibliographic account of Constantine’s life. This work is also famous for its controversial account of Constantine’s vision of a floating cross with the inscription “Conquer by this.”