Two Narrative Images: Romans and Barbarians in the Context of Purity of Morals

Abstract

This article examines two narrative images – the Romans and the barbarians – in the late antique narrative tradition (4^th – 6^th centuries) with an emphasis on purity of morals. The main focus is on a comparative analysis of the moral characteristics attributed to the Romans and barbarians, as they are presented in the works of famous historians and writers of the time, such as Ammianus Marcellinus, Aurelius Augustine, Paulus Orosius, Salvianus of Marseilles, Claudius Claudianus, Hieronymus of Stridon and others. The article examines the way Roman authors used images of barbarians to criticize their own society, emphasizing the decline of morals and moral degradation of the Romans. In the works by the authors, barbarians are often portrayed as cruel and uncivilized, but they are sometimes credited with virtues such as simplicity, unity and fortitude, which contrast with the luxury, effeminacy and corruption of the Romans. Thus, the dual role of barbarians in Roman literature is analyzed – as enemies and as bearers of certain virtues lost by Roman society. Based on a comparative analysis of texts, the main motives and rhetorical devices used to create contrasting images of the Romans and barbarians are identified. Particular attention is paid to the way these narrative strategies are used to make the case for the moral and religious revival of the Roman Empire. The article also examines the influence of Christian ideology on the perception and portrayal of barbarians in the literature of that time.