Theodoric the Goth: Barbarian Champion of Civilisation

"Theodoric the Goth: Barbarian Champion of Civilisation" by Thomas Hodgkin is a historical narrative that recounts the life and impact of Theodoric, an Ostrogothic leader who lived during a turbulent period in Europe. It reveals how Theodoric tried to bring together different Gothic groups and how he worked to keep Roman culture alive as the Western Roman Empire fell apart. The book begins by discussing Hodgkin's reasons for writing about Theodoric and what he thought was important about him. He talks about the time when Theodoric was in power, pointing out how Rome's decline and the resulting disorder affected everything. He discusses how Theodoric, while conquering, also saw himself as a protector of civilization, a role often missed that Hodgkin sought to highlight, focusing on Theodoric's background, the problems he faced early on, and the relationships that helped him become a powerful figure.