Julian the Apostate

Julian the Apostate (332 - 363), born Flavius Claudius Julianus, was a Roman emperor for 18 months, from 361 to 363. He is called "the Apostate" because he was a convert from Christianity to Paganism. He was born at Constantinople, his father being a half-brother of Constantine the Great, on whose death most of Julian's family were murdered. Embittered by this event, Julian threw himself into philosophic studies, and secretly renounced Christianity.

As joint emperor with his cousin from 355 he showed himself a capable soldier, a vigorous and wise administrator. On becoming sole emperor he proclaimed his apostasy, and sought to restore paganism, but without persecuting the Church. Though painted in blackest colours by the Christian Fathers, he was a lover of truth, chaste, abstinent, just, and affectionate, if somewhat vain and superstitious. He was killed in an expedition against Persia. Several writings of his are extant, but a work he wrote against the Christians is lost.

Wisdom & Quotes

• Thou hast conquered, Galilean !

- attributed death-bed words

St Ambrose