Following centuries of military domination and geographical expansion, the Roman Empire began its decline in the 3rd century AD. What triggered the collapse of one of the world’s greatest military and political powers?
While the fall of the Roman Empire was a gradual descent rather than an immediate collapse, there is a tipping point many believe set this descent in motion: the sack of the city of Rome in 410. This attack by a group of runaway slaves and Roman rejects was led by Alaric the Goth, and now you can hear his story from a new angle in Alaric the Goth and the Sack of Rome. Taught by Dr. James B. Williams of the University of Indianapolis, this lecture offers a fresh look at a pivotal moment that would change the world.
Pilot Lecture: Alaric the Goth and the Sack of Rome
Rethink what you know about the Roman Empire and its decline as you meet Alaric the Goth and follow the story of the sack of Rome from the perspective of the outsiders.
Overview
01: Alaric the Goth and the Sack of Rome
The story of Rome is most often told from the Roman perspective. But what does that same story sound like from the other side? Join Dr. James B. Williams of the University of Indianapolis to meet Alaric the Goth and examine the sack of Rome through the eyes of the “barbarians” who struck a mortal blow to the empire.
32 min
