G. Leveniotis - G. Kalafikis, Marcianople (Early 377 AD): Research Problems of a Battle So Far Neglected (original) (raw)

Abstracts of the Free Communications, Thematic Sessions, Round Tables and Posters. The 24th International Congress of Byzantine Studies Venice and Padua, 22-27 August 2022, ed. L. Farina - E. Despotakis, Venezia 2022, p. 157

In this paper, we focus on the rather neglected Battle of Marcianople that initiated the Gothic War of 377-382. First, the literary tradition for the Thervingian revolt and for the battle itself was traced, evaluated and arranged according to the quality and quantity of evidence. Remarkably, a rich kaleidoscope of references in Late Antique and Medieval (Latin and Byzantine) texts exists. So, primary sources supplemented by modern secondary bibliography and relevant archaeological findings provide much insight into the issue. In summary, based on those data and criteria the following conclusions were reached: a plausible, overall timetable for the historic events during 376-377 was established; the outbreak of the revolt and the battle was especially settled in early 377. The topography was surveyed as well. Perhaps the Thervingi refugees entered Late Roman territory from several fords across the Lower Danube basin, but their southward trek to Marcianople commenced from Durostorum, maybe by two local, almost parallel routes. Based on the road system of the region, two probable locations for the battlefield were pinpointed ca. 13.5 km/8.3 miles to the north or west of the ancient city (modern Reka Devnya, Bulgaria). The collaboration between the Thervingi and Greuthungi Goths even before this battle was also assessed and ruled out through textual analysis. The battle was analysed in regard to opponent forces, strategy and tactics, military equipment, battle phases and outcome, and human and material loss. Finally, the repercussions of this obscure battle were studied, because it served as a prelude to the well-known Battle of Adrianople and also marked the start of the Barbarian Invasions and the Migration Period.