The Cambridge Companion to the Age of Attila

This book considers the great cultural and geopolitical changes in western Eurasia in the fifth century CE.

"The Cambridge Companion to the Age of Attila" explores the significant cultural and geopolitical transformations occurring in western Eurasia during the fifth century CE. While the primary focus is on the Roman Empire, the book also delves into the developments in northern Europe, the Sasanian Empire in Iran, and the dynamics of the vast Eurasian steppe. Attila, the infamous king of the Huns, is portrayed as both a catalyst for change and a representation of the decline of the established world order.

Throughout this period, the western part of the Roman Empire faced collapse, giving rise to various 'barbarian' kingdoms. In contrast, the eastern Mediterranean saw the continuation of Roman governance through the Christian Byzantine Empire. The book highlights how these shifts not only altered the political landscape but also influenced cultural exchanges and interactions among diverse peoples across the region.

Additionally, the narrative emphasizes the emergence of new states and the evolving theories of power in Iran under the Sasanian Empire. The book illustrates how the great Eurasian steppe became an integral part of the European context, impacting trade, migration, and military strategies. Overall, "The Cambridge Companion to the Age of Attila" provides a comprehensive examination of a pivotal era, shedding light on the complexities of identity, power, and cultural transformation in a time of profound change.