Sidonius Appolinaris on King Theodoric II, the Visigoth

The letter written by Sidonius Appolinaris to his brother-in-law Agricola represents an enthusiastic panegyric to the Visigoth king Theodoric II. The real meaning of this document remains unclear without careful analysis of its contents on the one hand and without additional information about its author, its addressee and the conditions of its creation on the other. Exaggerated enthusiasm of Sidonius, obviously, requires logical explanation.

What are we finding out about Theodoric II from this passionate missive?  First of all, this barbarian king happily gifted by “Providence and Nature” is famous for …….. (Download to read further)