Family tree Homs » Magnus Clemens Maximus (Macsen Wledig) "Magnus Maximus" (± 340-388)

Personal data Magnus Clemens Maximus (Macsen Wledig) "Magnus Maximus" 

• Nickname is Magnus Maximus.
• He was born about 340 in Callaecia, Spain.
• Profession: in Commander of the troops in Britain, emperor 383-388.
• He died on August 28, 388 in Aquileia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, ItalyAquileia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
• A child of Eucherius and Flavia
• This information was last updated on March 29, 2012.

Household of Magnus Clemens Maximus (Macsen Wledig) "Magnus Maximus"

He is married to Elen Luyddog Caernarfon.

They got married about 356 at Rome, Italy.

Child(ren):

1. Gratianna  ± 374-???? 
2. Severa Verch Macsen  ± 388-± 459 
3. Antonius Donatus Gregorius   

Notes about Magnus Clemens Maximus (Macsen Wledig) "Magnus Maximus"

Name Suffix: Emperor Of Brita

Name Suffix: Emperor Of Brita

MAGNUS CLEMENS MAXIMUS (d. 388) ruled as usurping Roman Emperor from 383 to 388. Of Spanish birth, Magnus Maximus served in the Roman amy in Britain from 367 and rose to high military command. In 383 he proclaimed himself Emperor, crossed the Channel with an army and established his rule over Gaul and Spain. In 387 he moved into Italy but in 388was defeated by the rightful Emperor, Theodosius I, and executed at Aquileia. His significance in British history is twofold. First, his withdrawals of troops from Britain made the province even more vulnerable that it already was to Pictish, Irish and Saxon marauders. Secondly, he was remembered (under the name Macsen) in medieval Welsh tradition as the ancestor of several British princely dynasties. Precisely what significance this may have is not clear, but it is possible that Maximus established reliable native subordinates for defensive purposes in positions of authority that later became hereditary. On both countshis unwitting contribution to the confused process called for convenience 'the end of Roman Britain' was considerable. [Who's Who in Roman Britain and Anglo-Saxon England, Richard Fletcher, Shephear-Walwyn Ltd., London, 1989]
------------------------------
MAGNUS MAXIMUS, a native of Spain, who had accompanied Theodosius on several expeditions, and from 368 seems to have had some office in Britain, where he was proclaimed emperor by the disaffected troops. Denuding, as it would seem, Hadrian's Wall of its garrison, he crossed overto Gaul, and overthrew Gratian. Theodosius being unable to avenge thedeath of his colleague, an agreement was made (384 or 385) by which Maximus was recognized as Augustus and sole emperor in Gaul, Spain and Britain, while Valentinian II was to rule Italy and Illyricum. In 387 Maximus crossed the Alps and Valentinian was forced to fly to Theodosius. Advancing with a powerful Army, Theodosius defeated the troops of Maximus---at Siscia on the Save, and at Poetovio on the Danube. He then hurried to Aquileia, where Maximus had shut himself up, and had himbeheaded. [Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1961 ed., Vol. XV, p. 119, MAXIMUS, MAGNUS MAXIMUS]
----------------------------
MAXIMUS, MAGNUS (d. Aug. 28, 388), usurping Roman emperor who ruled Britain, Gaul, and Spain from AD 383 to 388. A Spaniard of humble origin, Maximus commanded the Roman troops in Britain against the Picts andScots. In the spring of 383, Maximus' British troops proclaimed him emperor, and he at once crossed to the European continent to confront his rival, the Western emperor Gratian. Maximus won over Gratian's advancing troops; Gratian fled but was overtaken and killed (Aug. 25, 383). Maximus took up residence at Trier (in present-day Germany) and entered into negotiations with the Eastern emperor, Theodosius I. Since hostile tribes were threatening his eastern frontier, Theodosius decided to recognize Maximus rather than fight a war in the West. Maximus also opened negotiations with Valentinian II, the young ruler who had been coemperor with Gratian, and made an uneasy peace with him. At thistime Maximus elevated his son Flavius Victor to be coruler with him, and his elevation was recognized by the other two emperors. In the summer of 387 Maximus invaded Italy, forcing Valentinian to flee to Thessalonica. War broke out in 388 between Maximus and Theodosius, whose position had been strengthened by a treaty with the Persians. When his troops were defeated near Siscia and at Petovio, in Illyricum (in the Balkans), Maximus was captured and executed. [Encyclopaedia Britannica CD '97, MAGNUS MAXIMUS.]
In the history or the mythology of the beginnings of the kingdoms of Wales, Magnus is a ubiquitous lurker. He also figures in stories of the saints; he appears in the early literature of Cornwall and in the traditions of the Men of the North and it is he who is the hero of the story "Breuddwyd Macsen." So great was his appeal to the Welsh imagination and so substantial was his alleged contribution to the establishment of the early Welsh kingdoms that A. W. Wade-Evans and Martin Charlesworth suggested he could be considered to be the father of the Welshnation. [A History of Wales, John Davies, Allen Lane, The Penguin Press, London, 1993.]

MAGNUS CLEMENS MAXIMUS (d. 388) ruled as usurping Roman Emperor from 383 to 388. Of Spanish birth, Magnus Maximus served in the Roman amy in Britain from 367 and rose to high military command. In 383 he proclaimed himself Emperor, crossed the Channel with an army and established his rule over Gaul and Spain. In 387 he moved into Italy but in 388was defeated by the rightful Emperor, Theodosius I, and executed at Aquileia. His significance in British history is twofold. First, his withdrawals of troops from Britain made the province even more vulnerable that it already was to Pictish, Irish and Saxon marauders. Secondly, he was remembered (under the name Macsen) in medieval Welsh tradition as the ancestor of several British princely dynasties. Precisely what significance this may have is not clear, but it is possible that Maximus established reliable native subordinates for defensive purposes in positions of authority that later became hereditary. On both countshis unwitting contribution to the confused process called for convenience 'the end of Roman Britain' was considerable. [Who's Who in Roman Britain and Anglo-Saxon England, Richard Fletcher, Shephear-Walwyn Ltd., London, 1989]
------------------------------
MAGNUS MAXIMUS, a native of Spain, who had accompanied Theodosius on several expeditions, and from 368 seems to have had some office in Britain, where he was proclaimed emperor by the disaffected troops. Denuding, as it would seem, Hadrian's Wall of its garrison, he crossed overto Gaul, and overthrew Gratian. Theodosius being unable to avenge thedeath of his colleague, an agreement was made (384 or 385) by which Maximus was recognized as Augustus and sole emperor in Gaul, Spain and Britain, while Valentinian II was to rule Italy and Illyricum. In 387 Maximus crossed the Alps and Valentinian was forced to fly to Theodosius. Advancing with a powerful Army, Theodosius defeated the troops of Maximus---at Siscia on the Save, and at Poetovio on the Danube. He then hurried to Aquileia, where Maximus had shut himself up, and had himbeheaded. [Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1961 ed., Vol. XV, p. 119, MAXIMUS, MAGNUS MAXIMUS]
----------------------------
MAXIMUS, MAGNUS (d. Aug. 28, 388), usurping Roman emperor who ruled Britain, Gaul, and Spain from AD 383 to 388. A Spaniard of humble origin, Maximus commanded the Roman troops in Britain against the Picts andScots. In the spring of 383, Maximus' British troops proclaimed him emperor, and he at once crossed to the European continent to confront his rival, the Western emperor Gratian. Maximus won over Gratian's advancing troops; Gratian fled but was overtaken and killed (Aug. 25, 383). Maximus took up residence at Trier (in present-day Germany) and entered into negotiations with the Eastern emperor, Theodosius I. Since hostile tribes were threatening his eastern frontier, Theodosius decided to recognize Maximus rather than fight a war in the West. Maximus also opened negotiations with Valentinian II, the young ruler who had been coemperor with Gratian, and made an uneasy peace with him. At thistime Maximus elevated his son Flavius Victor to be coruler with him, and his elevation was recognized by the other two emperors. In the summer of 387 Maximus invaded Italy, forcing Valentinian to flee to Thessalonica. War broke out in 388 between Maximus and Theodosius, whose position had been strengthened by a treaty with the Persians. When his troops were defeated near Siscia and at Petovio, in Illyricum (in the Balkans), Maximus was captured and executed. [Encyclopaedia Britannica CD '97, MAGNUS MAXIMUS.]
In the history or the mythology of the beginnings of the kingdoms of Wales, Magnus is a ubiquitous lurker. He also figures in stories of the saints; he appears in the early literature of Cornwall and in the traditions of the Men of the North and it is he who is the hero of the story "Breuddwyd Macsen." So great was his appeal to the Welsh imagination and so substantial was his alleged contribution to the establishment of the early Welsh kingdoms that A. W. Wade-Evans and Martin Charlesworth suggested he could be considered to be the father of the Welshnation. [A History of Wales, John Davies, Allen Lane, The Penguin Press, London, 1993.]

MAGNUS CLEMENS MAXIMUS (d. 388) ruled as usurping Roman Emperor from 383 to 388. Of Spanish birth, Magnus Maximus served in the Roman amy in Britain from 367 and rose to high military command. In 383 he proclaimed himself Emperor, crossed the Channel with an army and established his rule over Gaul and Spain. In 387 he moved into Italy but in 388was defeated by the rightful Emperor, Theodosius I, and executed at Aquileia. His significance in British history is twofold. First, his withdrawals of troops from Britain made the province even more vulnerable that it already was to Pictish, Irish and Saxon marauders. Secondly, he was remembered (under the name Macsen) in medieval Welsh tradition as the ancestor of several British princely dynasties. Precisely what significance this may have is not clear, but it is possible that Maximus established reliable native subordinates for defensive purposes in positions of authority that later became hereditary. On both countshis unwitting contribution to the confused process called for convenience 'the end of Roman Britain' was considerable. [Who's Who in Roman Britain and Anglo-Saxon England, Richard Fletcher, Shephear-Walwyn Ltd., London, 1989]
------------------------------
MAGNUS MAXIMUS, a native of Spain, who had accompanied Theodosius on several expeditions, and from 368 seems to have had some office in Britain, where he was proclaimed emperor by the disaffected troops. Denuding, as it would seem, Hadrian's Wall of its garrison, he crossed overto Gaul, and overthrew Gratian. Theodosius being unable to avenge thedeath of his colleague, an agreement was made (384 or 385) by which Maximus was recognized as Augustus and sole emperor in Gaul, Spain and Britain, while Valentinian II was to rule Italy and Illyricum. In 387 Maximus crossed the Alps and Valentinian was forced to fly to Theodosius. Advancing with a powerful Army, Theodosius defeated the troops of Maximus---at Siscia on the Save, and at Poetovio on the Danube. He then hurried to Aquileia, where Maximus had shut himself up, and had himbeheaded. [Encyclopaedia Britannica, 1961 ed., Vol. XV, p. 119, MAXIMUS, MAGNUS MAXIMUS]
----------------------------
MAXIMUS, MAGNUS (d. Aug. 28, 388), usurping Roman emperor who ruled Britain, Gaul, and Spain from AD 383 to 388. A Spaniard of humble origin, Maximus commanded the Roman troops in Britain against the Picts andScots. In the spring of 383, Maximus' British troops proclaimed him emperor, and he at once crossed to the European continent to confront his rival, the Western emperor Gratian. Maximus won over Gratian's advancing troops; Gratian fled but was overtaken and killed (Aug. 25, 383). Maximus took up residence at Trier (in present-day Germany) and entered into negotiations with the Eastern emperor, Theodosius I. Since hostile tribes were threatening his eastern frontier, Theodosius decided to recognize Maximus rather than fight a war in the West. Maximus also opened negotiations with Valentinian II, the young ruler who had been coemperor with Gratian, and made an uneasy peace with him. At thistime Maximus elevated his son Flavius Victor to be coruler with him, and his elevation was recognized by the other two emperors. In the summer of 387 Maximus invaded Italy, forcing Valentinian to flee to Thessalonica. War broke out in 388 between Maximus and Theodosius, whose position had been strengthened by a treaty with the Persians. When his troops were defeated near Siscia and at Petovio, in Illyricum (in the Balkans), Maximus was captured and executed. [Encyclopaedia Britannica CD '97, MAGNUS MAXIMUS.]
In the history or the mythology of the beginnings of the kingdoms of Wales, Magnus is a ubiquitous lurker. He also figures in stories of the saints; he appears in the early literature of Cornwall and in the traditions of the Men of the North and it is he who is the hero of the story "Breuddwyd Macsen." So great was his appeal to the Welsh imagination and so substantial was his alleged contribution to the establishment of the early Welsh kingdoms that A. W. Wade-Evans and Martin Charlesworth suggested he could be considered to be the father of the Welshnation. [A History of Wales, John Davies, Allen Lane, The Penguin Press, London, 1993.]

Magnus Maximus
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Magnus Maximus.Magnus Maximus (Welsh: Macsen Wledig), also Maximianus, (c. 335–July 28, 388) was a usurper of the Western Roman Empire from 383 until his death in 388.

Contents [hide]
1 Life
2 Legendary accounts
3 External links
3.1 Historical Magnus
3.2 Legendary Magnus

[edit]
Life
A Spanish Celt, Maximus was proclaimed emperor by his troops in 383, while serving with the army in Britain. Later legend mapoop to Gaul to pursue his imperial ambitions.

Following his destruction of Gaul, Maximus went out to meet his main opponent, Gratianus, who he defeated near Paris. Gratianus, after fleeing, was killed at Lyons on August 25, 383. Soon after, he managed to force Valentinian II out of Rome after which he fled to Theodosius I, the Eastern Roman Emperor. Maximus made his capital at Augusta Treverorum (Treves, Trier) in Gaul. He became a popular emperor, although also a stern persecutor of heretics.

Maximus was defeated in the battle of the Save (388) and was captured and executed by Theodosius, along with his son. Valentinian was restored to the emperorship of Rome while Dionotus, the brother of Caradocus, became king of the Britons.

[edit]
Legendary accounts
According to Geoffrey of Monmouth, basis for many English and Welsh legends, Magnus was king of the Britons following the death of Octavius and a nephew of King Coel through his brother Ioelinus. According to the Mabinogion tale The Dream of Macsen Wledig, Magnus Maximus took as his wife Helen or Elen, daughter of a chieftain based at Segontium (Caernarfon). This agrees with the story Geoffrey tells that Octavius, the king of the Britons, wanted to wed his daughter to a powerful half-Roman, half-Briton and give the kingship of Britain as a dowry to that husband. Although the story of their meeting is undoubtedly fictional, there is some evidence for the basic claims. Caradocus, the Duke of Cornwall, supported the marriage between Octavius's daughter and Maximus. Maximus accepted and left Rome for Britain. Geoffrey claims further that Maximus gathered an army as he sacked Frankish towns along the way. He invaded Clausentum (modern Southampton) unintentionally and nearly fought the army of the Britons before a truce was made. Following further negotiations, Maximus was given the kingship of Britain and Octavius retired. Welsh legend also claims that he was responsible for the withdrawal of Roman troops from Wales, twenty years before the rest of Britain was left to govern itself. Five years into his kingship, Magnus Maximus assembled a vast fleet and invaded Gaul leaving Britain in the control of Caradocus. Upon reaching the kingdom of Armorica, he defeated the king and killed thousands of inhabitants. Before departing, he summoned Conanus (Welsh: Kynan Meriadec, French: Conan Meriadoc), the rebellious nephew of Octavius, and asked him to rule as king of the land, which was renamed Brittany, or 'Little Britain'.

[edit]
External links
Wikimedia Commons has media related to:
Magnus Maximus[edit]
Historical Magnus
De Imperatoribus Romanis account
[edit]
Legendary Magnus
Family fact sheet of Magnus Maximus, based on the Welsh legends about h
Translated text of "The Dream of Macsen Wledig", included in the Mabinogion

Preceded by:
Octavius Legendary British Kings Succeeded by:
Caradocus
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Magnus Maximus was born to a poor Spanish family, probably in the province of Callaecia in north western Spain.

After a military career, Maximus came to serve under Theodosius the Elder in Britain in AD 369, and in Africa from AD 373 to 375.
His efforts were rewarded by being granted overall military command in Britain, where he successfully campaigned against the Picts and Scots.

But the army was very disillusioned and dissatisfied with its emperor Gratian. In particular jealousies toward privileges awarded to barbarian units fighting for the empire ignited much ill-feeling with the soldiery.
Finally, in AD 383 it all boiled over and the garrison in Britain revolted and proclaimed Maximus as the new Augustus of the west.
At once the new emperor crossed the Channel with his troops, taking Gratian by complete surprise.
As Gratian marched his troops west to meet the usurper at Lutetia in battle, his troops simply deserted him and changed allegiance to Maximus.
Gratian fled, but was caught up with by Maximus' 'Master of Horse' Andragathius who assassinated him.

Maximus now established his capital at Treviri and began negotiations with Theodosius, emperor of the east, who reluctantly recognized him as emperor, if only to save young Valentinian II who still remained in charge of Italy, Pannoniae and Africa.
With his recognition as emperor, Maximus adopted the name Flavius, in order to portray himself as an adopted member of the imperial family.

Maximus was a orthodox Catholic who, like Theodosius in the east, vehemently pursued and punished heretics and pagans.

In AD 387 Maximus elevated his infant son Flavius Victor to be co-Augustus.
Then, in the summer of AD 387, Maximus invaded Italy in a successful attempt to oust Valentinian II. The young emperor Valentinian II fled with his mother to Theodosius in Constantinople.

But Maximus attempt on increasing his realm of influence backfired. Theodosius was no longer tied up in trouble in the east anymore and stood ready to launch an attack on the usurper.
In AD 388, with Maximus staying behind in Aquileia, Andragathius led his army against Theodosius, only to be defeated at Siscia.
Thereafter his brother Marcellinus led the re-grouped army back into battle, but he too was defeated at Poetovio.

Maximus was captured and pleaded for the victor to show mercy. Though Theodosius showed none and had him executed (AD 388).
His son, Flavius Victor, was captured by Arbogast, Theodosius 'Master of Soldiers', and was also put to death.

Source: http://www.roman-empire.net/collapse/maximus.html

Magnus Maximus
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Magnus Maximus
Usurper of the Western Roman Empire
Reign 383 - August 28, 388 (against Gratian, then Valentinian II and Theodosius I)
Born ca. 335
Hispania
Died August 28, 388
Aquileia
Predecessor Octavius
Successor Caradocus
Wife/wives Helen
Issue Flavius Victor,
two daughters
"Maxen" redirects here. For other uses, see Maxen (disambiguation).

Magnus Maximus (ca. 335–August 28, 388), also Maximianus, was an Hispanic usurper of the Western Roman Empire from 383 until his death, in 388, by order of Emperor Theodosius I.
Contents
[hide]

* 1 Life
* 2 Role in British and Breton History
* 3 Welsh Legend
o 3.1 Geoffrey of Monmouth
o 3.2 The Dream of Macsen Wledig
* 4 Later Literature
* 5 See also
* 6 References
* 7 Primary Sources
* 8 External links
o 8.1 Historical Magnus
o 8.2 Legendary Magnus

[edit] Life

Maximus was a distinguished general who served under Theodosius the Elder. He certainly served with him in Africa in 373 and on the Danube in 376. It is likely he also may have been a junior officer in Britain during the quelling of the Great Conspiracy in 368. Assigned to Britain in 380, he defeated an incursion of the Picts and Scots in 381. Maximus was proclaimed emperor by his troops in 383. He went to Gaul to pursue his imperial ambitions taking a large number of British troops with him.

Following his conquest of Gaul, Maximus went out to meet his main opponent, Gratian, whom he defeated near Paris. Gratian, after fleeing, was killed at Lyon on August 25, 383. Continuing his campaign into Italy Maximus was stopped from overthrowing Valentinian II, who was aged only twelve, when Theodosius I, the Eastern Roman Emperor, sent Flavius Bauto with a powerful force to stop him. Negotiations followed in 384 including the intervention of Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, leading to an accord with Valentinian II and Theodosius I in which Maximus was recognized as an Augustus in the west.

Maximus made his capital at Augusta Treverorum (Treves, Trier) in Gaul and ruled Britain, Gaul, Spain, and Africa. He issued coinage and a number of edicts reorganizing Gaul's system of provinces. Some scholars believe Maximus may have founded the office of the Comes Britanniarum as well. He became a popular emperor, Quintus Aurelius Symmachus delivered a panegyric on Maximus' virtues. He used barbarian forces such as the Alamanni to great effect. He was also a stern persecutor of heretics. It was on his orders that Priscillian and 6 companions became the first people in the history of Christianity to be executed for heresy, in this case of Priscillianism, by other Christians (though the civil charges were for the practice of magic), and their property was confiscated. These executions went ahead despite the wishes of prominent men such as St. Martin of Tours. Maximus' edict of 387 or 388 which censured Christians at Rome for burning down a Jewish synagogue, was condemned by Bishop Ambrose who said people exclaimed: ‘the emperor has become a Jew’ [1]

In 387 Maximus managed to force Valentinian II out of Rome after which he fled to Theodosius I. Theodosius I and Valentinian II then invaded from the east and campaigned against Magnus Maximus in July-August 388 their troops being led by Richomeres and other generals. Maximus was defeated in the Battle of the Save, and retreated to Aquileia. Meanwhile the Franks under Marcomer had taken the opportunity and invaded at the same time further weakening Maximus' position.

Andragathius, magister equitum of Maximus and killer of Gratian, was defeated near Siscia, his brother Marcellinus again at Poetovio. Maximus surrendered in Aquileia and although pleaded for mercy was executed. The Senate passed a decree of Damnatio memoriae against him. However, his wife and two daughters were spared. Maximus' son, Flavius Victor, was defeated and executed by Valentinian's magister peditum Arbogast in the fall of the same year. What happened to his family is not related, although it is clear that they survived and that his descendants continued to occupy influential posts. We encounter a possible daughter of Magnus Maximus, Sevira, on the Pillar of Eliseg, an early medieval inscribed stone in Wales which claims her marriage to Vortigern, king of the Britons. Another daughter was possibly married to Ennodius, proconsul Africae (395). Their grandson was Petronius Maximus, who was another ill-fated emperor, ruling in Rome for but 77 days before he was stoned to death while fleeing from the Vandals on May 24, 455. Other descendants included Anicius Olybrius, emperor in 472, but also several consuls and bishops such as St. Magnus Felix Ennodius (Bishop of Pavia c. 514-21).

[edit] Role in British and Breton History

In Gildas's De Excidio et Conquestu Britanniae written in the sixth century Maximus is attributed an important role as the man responsible for withdrawing Roman troops from Britain on a major scale and thus leaving it open to barbarian attack. The archaeological evidence backs up Gildas's account in that the late fourth century seems to have been the period when Roman troops were withdrawn from areas like Hadrian's Wall and Segontium with no coins found later than 383. The earliest Welsh genealogies give Maximus (Welsh: Macsen/Maxen Wledig) a role as a founding father of the dynasties of many of Welsh kingdoms such as the Kingdom of Powys, Kingdom of Gwent and the Kingdom of Dyfed the sort of claims reflected in the Pillar of Eliseg and in lists of the Fifteen Tribes of Wales. [2] It has been argued that this role may be a result of genuine land grants and delegation of authority by Roman authorities to local leaders such as Vortigern and Padarn Beisrudd on troop withdrawal. It also has been suggested he settled the Déisi and Attacotti in Britain. [3] Although it is impossible to back these ideas with any certainty, and they could be later invention what is obvious that a connection to Mascen was seen as highly desirable early in Welsh history.

The ninth century Historia Brittonum gives another account of Maxiumus and assigns him an important role:

The seventh emperor was Maximianus. He withdrew from Britain with all its military force, slew Gratianus the king of the Romans, and obtained the sovereignty of all Europe. Unwilling to send back his warlike companions to their wives, families, and possessions in Britain, he conferred upon them numerous districts from the lake on the summit of Mons lovis, to the city called Cant Guic, and to the western Tumulus, that is Cruc Occident. These are the Armoric Britons, and they remain there to the present day. In consequence of their absence, Britain being overcome by foreign nations, the lawful heirs were cast out, till God interposed with his assistance.

Modern historians believe that this idea of mass British troop settlement in Brittany by Maximus may very well reflect some reality as it accords with other historical evidence and later Breton traditions.

[edit] Welsh Legend

Legendary versions of Maximus' career in which he marries a Welsh princess Helen may have been in popular circulation in Welsh speaking areas from an early point. Although the story of Helen and Maximus's meeting is almost certainly fictional, there is some evidence for the basic claims. He is certainly given a prominent place in the earliest version of the Welsh Triads which are believed to date from c. 1100 and which reflect far older traditions. Maxen is also frequently referred to Welsh poetry as a point of comparison to later Welsh leaders. These legends come down to us in two separate versions. [4]

[edit] Geoffrey of Monmouth
Wikisource has original text related to this article:
History of the Kings of Britain/Book 5

According to Geoffrey of Monmouth's semi-fictional Historia regum Britanniae, basis for many English and Welsh legends, Maximian as he calls him, was a Roman senator and nephew of King Coel through his brother Ioelinus and was king of the Brythons following the death of Octavius. Geoffrey tells this came about because Octavius, the king of the Britons, wanted to wed his daughter to such a powerful half-Roman, half-Briton and give the kingship of Britain as a dowry to that husband so he sent a message to Rome offering his daughter to Maximian.

Caradocus, the Duke of Cornwall, had suggested and supported the marriage between Octavius's daughter and Maximian. Maximian accepted the offer and left Rome for Britain. Geoffrey claims further that Maximian gathered an army as he sacked Frankish towns along the way. He invaded Clausentum (modern Southampton) unintentionally and nearly fought the army of the Britons under Conanus before a truce was made. Following further negotiations, Maximian was given the kingship of Britain and Octavius retired. Five years into his kingship, Magnus Maximus assembled a vast fleet and invaded Gaul, leaving Britain in the control of Caradocus. Upon reaching the kingdom of Armorica, he defeated the king and killed thousands of inhabitants. Before departing to Rome, he summoned Conanus, the rebellious nephew of Octavius, and asked him to rule as king of the land, which was renamed Brittany, or 'Little Britain'. Conan's men married native women after cutting out their tongues to preserve the purity of their language. Geoffrey of Monmouth presents this legend to explain the Welsh name for Brittany, Llydaw, as originating from lled-taw or half-silent. Given that Conan was well established in genealogies as the founder of Brittany this certainly is connected to an older tradition than Geoffrey.

Following the death of Caradocus rule of Britain as regent passed to Dionotus, who facing a foreign invasion appealed to Maximus who finally sent a man named Gracianus Municeps with two legions to stop the attack. He killed many thousands before the invaders fled to Ireland. Maximus died in Rome soon after and Dionotus became the official king of the Britons. Unfortunately, before he could begin his reign, Gracianus took hold of the crown and made himself king over Dionotus.

[edit] The Dream of Macsen Wledig
Wikisource has original text related to this article:
The Dream of Maxen Wledig

Although the Mabinogion tale The Dream of Macsen Wledig is written in later manuscripts than Geoffrey's version the two accounts are so different that scholars agree the Dream cannot be based purely on Geoffrey's version. The Dream's account also seems to accord better with details in the Triads so it perhaps reflects an earlier tradition.

Macsen Wledig, the Emperor of Rome, dreams one night of a lovely maiden in a wonderful, far-off land. Awakening, he sends his men all over the earth in search of her. With much difficulty they find her in a rich castle in Britain daughter of a chieftain based at Segontium (Caernarfon), and lead the Emperor to her. Everything he finds is exactly as in his dream. The maiden, whose name is Helen or Elen, accepts and loves him. Because Elen is found a virgin, Macsen gives her father sovereignty over the island of Britain and orders three castles built for his bride. In Macsen's absence, a new emperor seizes power and warns him not to return. With the help of men from Britain led by Elen's brother Conanus (Welsh: Kynan Meriadec, French: Conan Meriadoc), Macsen marches across Gaul and Italy and recaptures Rome. In gratitude to his British allies, Macsen rewards them with a portion of Gaul that becomes known as Brittany.

[edit] Later Literature

The prominent place of Macsen in history, Welsh legend and in the Matter of Britain means he is often a character or referred to in historical and Arthurian fiction. Such stories include Lawhead's Pendragon Cycle, Mary Stewart's The Hollow Hills, and Kipling's Puck of Pook's Hill.

[edit] See also

* Pillar of Eliseg

[edit] References

1. ^ Ambrose, Patrologia Latina, 16–17 (1845), nos. 40
2. ^ Rachel Bromwich, editor and translator. Trioedd Ynys Prydein: The Welsh Triads. Cardiff: University of Wales Press, Third Edition, 2006. 441-444
3. ^ "Attacotti, Déisi and Magnus Maximus: the Case for Irish Federates in Late Roman Britain", Philip Rance, Britannia 32 (2001) 243-270;
4. ^ Rachel Bromwich, editor and translator. Trioedd Ynys Prydein: The Welsh Triads. Cardiff: University of Wales Press, Third Edition, 2006. 441-444

[edit] Primary Sources

Magnus Maximus is mentioned in a number of ancient and Medieval sources.

* Ammianus Marcellinus Rerum Gestarum Libri Qui Supersunt XXXI.4.9
* Geoffrey of Monmouth Histories of the Kings of Britain V.5-6
* Gildas De Excidio Britannie II.13-14
* 'Nennius' Historia Brittonum 27; 29
* Orosius Historium adversum paganos VII.34
* Pacatus Panegyricus Latini Pacati Deprani Dictus Theodosio
* Prosper (Tiro) of Aquitaine Chronicon 384; 388
* Socrates Scholasticus Historia Ecclesiastica V.8; V.11
* Sozomen Historia Ecclesiastica VII.13
* Sulpicius Severus Dialogi II.6;III.11,13
* Sulpicius Severus Historia Sacra II.49-51
* Sulpicius Severus Vita Sancti Martini XX
* Trioedd Ynys Prydein (The Welsh Triads)
* Zosimus Historia Nova

[edit] External links
Wikimedia Commons has media related to:
Magnus Maximus

[edit] Historical Magnus

* De Imperatoribus Romanis account
* Roman Empire account
* Vortigern Studies Magnus Maximus and the Picts

[edit] Legendary Magnus

* Translated text of "The Dream of Macsen Wledig", included in The Mabinogion

Preceded by
Octavius Legendary British Kings Succeeded by
Caradocus

[Wikipedia, "Magnus Maximus", retrieved 16 Dec 07]
Magnus Maximus (ca. 335-August 28, 388), also Maximianus, was an usurper of the Western Roman Empire from 383 until his death, in 388, by order of Emperor Theodosius I.

Life
Maximus was proclaimed emperor by his troops in 383 while serving with the army in Britain. He went to Gaul to pursue his imperial ambitions. Following his destruction of Gaul, Maximus went out to meet his main opponent, Gratian, whom he defeated near Paris. Gratian, after fleeing, was killed at Lyon on August 25, 383. Soon after, Maximus managed to force Valentinian II out of Rome after which he fled to Theodosius I, the Eastern Roman Emperor. Maximus made his capital at Augusta Treverorum (Treves, Trier) in Gaul. He became a popular emperor, although also a stern persecutor of heretics.

Theodosius I and Valentinian II campaigned against Magnus Maximus in July-August 388. Maximus was defeated in the Battle of the Save, and retreated to Aquileia.

Andragathius, magister equitum of Maximus and killer of Gratian, was defeated near Siscia, his brother Marcellinus again at Poetovio. Maximus surrendered in Aquileia and although pleaded for mercy was executed. However, his wife and two daughters were spared. Maximus' son, Flavius Victor, was defeated and executed by Valentinian's magister peditum Arbogast in the fall of the same year. What happened to his family is not related, although it is clear that they survived and that his descendants continued to occupy influential posts. We encounter a possible daughter of Magnus Maximus, Sevira, on the Pillar of Eliseg, an early medieval inscribed stone in Wales which claims her marriage to Vortigern, king of the Britons. Another daughter was possibly married to Ennodius, proconsul Africae (395). Their grandson was Petronius Maximus, who was another ill-fated emperor, ruling in Rome for but 77 days before he was stoned to death while fleeing from the Vandals on May 24, 455. Other descendants included Anicius Olybrius, emperor in 472, but also several consuls and bishops such as St. Magnus Felix Ennodius (Bishop of Pavia c. 514-21).

Legendary accounts
Wikisource has original text related to this article:
The Dream of Maxen WledigAccording to Geoffrey of Monmouth's fictional Historia regum Britanniae, basis for many English and Welsh legends, Magnus (Welsh: Macsen Wledig) was king of the Brythons following the death of Octavius and a nephew of King Coel through his brother Ioelinus. According to the Mabinogion tale The Dream of Macsen Wledig, Magnus Maximus took as his wife Helen or Elen, daughter of a chieftain based at Segontium (Caernarfon). This agrees with the story Geoffrey tells that Octavius, the king of the Britons, wanted to wed his daughter to a powerful half-Roman, half-Briton and give the kingship of Britain as a dowry to that husband.

Although the story of their meeting is almost certainly fictional, there is some evidence for the basic claims. Caradocus, the Duke of Cornwall, supported the marriage between Octavius's daughter and Maximus. Maximus accepted and left Rome for Britain. Geoffrey claims further that Maximus gathered an army as he sacked Frankish towns along the way. He invaded Clausentum (modern Southampton) unintentionally and nearly fought the army of the Britons before a truce was made. Following further negotiations, Maximus was given the kingship of Britain and Octavius retired. Welsh legend also claims that he was responsible for the withdrawal of Roman troops from Wales, twenty years before the rest of Britain was left to govern itself. Five years into his kingship, Magnus Maximus assembled a vast fleet and invaded Gaul, leaving Britain in the control of Caradocus. Upon reaching the kingdom of Armorica, he defeated the king and killed thousands of inhabitants. Before departing, he summoned Conanus (Welsh: Kynan Meriadec, French: Conan Meriadoc), the rebellious nephew of Octavius, and asked him to rule as king of the land, which was renamed Brittany, or 'Little Britain'.

Emperor of Western Rome (Britain, Spain, Gaul) The period from 367 to 383 had ben an unsettling one in Britain. The island became increasingly under attack by Germanic tribes, Picts and the Irish. By 367, the problem caused emperor Valentinian to send an army under the command of Theodosius the Elder, a Spanish general. Magnus, another Spanish soldier, accompanied Theodosius, who within 2 years had control and established a new adminstration. The strict rule of the new Roman emperor caused unrest and in 383 the Roman army in Britain declared Maximus Emperor. He had stayed in Britain, became popular, and probably was made a Duke. In 382, he achieved a strong victory over the Picts. He raised an army, sailed to France, and engaged Gratian in battle outside of Paris. After 5 days, Gratian fled and soldiers caught and killed him at Lyons 8/25/383. Maximus was then accepted as emperor in the west, a position acknowledged by Theodosius the Younger, who was emperor in the east. Maximus held his court at Trier on the Moselle. Said to be a Spaniard without traceable parentage
He was a Christian and highly respected by the church. He ordered the deaths of heretics, such as the Gnostic Priscillianists in Spain. By 386, he decided to move into Italy and by January of 388 was successfully installed.
Now feeling under threat, Theodosius brought his better trained forces against Maximus, eventually defeating and capturing him. He was killed by a group of soldiers on July 28, 388.
His daughter, Servia, married Vortigern, the High King of Britain. It is probable that he installed strong commanders before going to the continent, which would have included Quintilius, the grandfather of Ceretic and Padarn of the Red Cloak, the grandfather of Cunedda. (Mike Ashley "British Kings & Queens" p 91-2

Magnus Maximus, Emperor of the West
(c.AD 340-388)
(Welsh: Macsen; Latin: Maximus; English: Maximilian)
According to Welsh legend, the Emperor Magnus Maximus, known as MacsenWledig (the Imperator), was a widowed senator living in Rome. Being aminor member of the Constantinian Imperial family, he felt it unjustthat the Empire was ruled by the Emperors, Gratian & Valentinian, butthere was little he could do about it.

In about 365, Maximus was out hunting one day when he rested beneath atree and fell asleep. He had a long dream about a palace far away. Heentered the palace and encountered an ageing King and two young menplaying chess. Turning, his eyes met the most beautiful woman he couldever have imagined, sitting on a golden throne. On waking, Maximusimmediately sought out a local oracle who urged him to search out thisbeautiful maiden. So messengers were sent out across the Empire but,dispite exhaustive searches, all returned empty handed. There was nosign of Maximus' beauty.

Meanwhile, at the edge of the Empire, High-King Eudaf Hen of Britainwas getting very old. He decided it was time to appoint his officialheir to the British Kingdom. His nephew, Conan Meriadoc, was perhapsthe most obvious choice, though the King's direct heir was his onlydaughter, Elen. Eudaf's chief advisor, Caradoc, the King of Dumnonia,advocated strengthening Roman links by marrying Elen to a man withImperial connections. The two could then inherit the Kingdom together.He knew of such a steady young man in Rome who would make an idealhusband. Eudaf was intrigued. So had Caradoc send his son, Mauric, toseek this Roman out.

Mauric arrived in Rome at the house of Magnus Maximus, just as he hadreceived the unfortunate news that his dream girl could not be found.Glad of the distraction and persuaded by Mauric's suggestion that hemight find support in Britain for his Imperial claims, Maximus gladlyagreed to return with him. Comes Theodosius' historical expedition toBritain in order to quell barbarian risings actually brought MagnusMaximus to these shores in 368. Legend tells how the arrival on theisland of a large army of men caused quite a stir and, not realisingwho it was, Eudaf sent Conan with an army to disperse them.Fortunately, Mauric persuaded all of their good intentions and Maximuswas able to ride off to Eudaf's court at Carnarfon (Caer-yn-Arfonalias Caer-Segeint).

Upon being introduced to everyone, Maximus was astounded to find thatEudaf was the old man in his dream and Conan, one of the chess-players(some say the other was his son, Cadfan). He was then overjoyed tofind that Eudaf's daughter, Elen, was his dream-girl. The two fell inlove immediately and were married with great pomp and ceremony.

Eudaf died soon afterward, and Maximus and Elen inherited his Kingdom.Conan was extremely annoyed and rode north to gather an army of Picts& Scots to overthrow them. However, Maximus defeated him and, beingmagnanimous in victory, the two made peace. Conan became Maximus'dearest friend and also his magister militum.

At this point, we return to more historic details. News reachedBritain that Maximus' relative, Theodosius had been elevated to theEastern Imperial throne. Incensed, Maximus invaded the Western Empire,in 383, along with his son Victorius and 'Prince' Conan. They withdrewtroops from Carnarfon (Caer-Segeint) & elsewhere in Britain and hismen quickly proclaimed Maximus as Emperor. His armies marched acrossthe continent, establishing his rule as they went. Conan eventuallykilled the Western Emperor, Gratian, in battle (being given Brittanyas a reward), and Maximus became sole ruler of the West.

Maximus set up his capital at Trier and ruled well over Britain, Gaul& Spain for four years. He was baptised a Christian, and wasrecognised as Emperor by Theodosius who was occupied with his owntroubles elsewhere. Eventually however, Maximus was forced to make amove against Gratian's younger brother, Valentinian, the SouthernEmperor, who threatened his rule from Rome. He invaded Italy, tookMilan and for a whole year besieged Rome, before Conan arrived oncemore and finished the job. Unfortunately though, Valentinian escaped.He soon returned, backed up by the Roman Emperor of the East,Theodsoius. Maximus' forces were twice defeated at Illyricum, beforehe was finally killed, with his son, at Aquileia.

Sources

Geoffrey Ashe (1990) Mythology of the British Isles.
Gildas Badonicus (c.540) The Ruin of Britain.
Peter C. Bartrum (1993) A Welsh Classical Dictionary.
A.H.M. Jones (1964) The Later Roman Empire 284-602: A Social,Economic, and Administrative Survey.
Geoffrey of Monmouth (1136) The History of the Kings of Britain.
Nennius (c.829) The History of the Britons.
The Red Book of Hergest (14th c.) The Dream of Macsen Wledig .
William Smith & Henry Wace (1877) The Dictionary of ChristianBiography.
The White Book of Rhydderch (14th c.) The Dream of Macsen Wledig

{geni:occupation} Spanish-born, emperor of Rome 383-8

{geni:about_me} '''Magnus Maximus''' (Latin: '''Flavius Magnus Maximus Augustus''') (ca. 335 – August 28, 388), also known as Maximianus and Macsen Wledig in Welsh, was Western Roman Emperor from 383 to 388. As commander of Britain, he usurped the throne against Emperor Gratian in 383. However, through negotiation with Theodosius I the following year he was made emperor in Britannia and Gaul - while Gratian's brother Valentinian II retained Italy, Pannonia, Hispania, and Africa. Nevertheless Maximus' ambitions led him to invade Italy in 387, leading to his defeat by Theodosius at the Battle of the Save in 388. His death marked the end of real imperial activity in northern Gaul and Britain. After Maximus, no significant Roman emperor (ignoring shadowy and short-lived usurpers) ever went north of Lyons again.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnus_Maximus

Magnus Maximus alias Macsen Wledig (the Imperator),
Emperor of the West, Abt 340 - 388

*m. Ceindrech ferch Reiden
**Victor alias Gwidyr, Abt 354 - 388
**Eugenius alias Owain Finddu (Black Lips), King of Mid-South Wales, Abt 355 -

*m. St. Helena of the Host, alias Elen Lwyddog, daughter of Octavius the Old alias Eudaf Hen, Abt 340

**Antoninus Donatus alias Anwn Dynod, King of South-West Wales, Abt 357 -
**Constantine alias Custennin Fawr (the Great), King of North-West Wales, Abt 360 -
**Publicus alias St. Peblig of Llanbeblig, Abt 363 -
**Gratianna, Abt 367 - , m. Tudwal ap Gwrfawr, King of Dumnonia, Abt 375 -
**Severa, Abt 370 - , m. Vortigern Vorteneu (the Thin), King of Powys & All Britain, Abt 370 - Abt 459

BIOGRAPHY: Maximus set up his capital at Trier and ruled well over Britain, Gaul & Spain for four years. He was baptised a Christian, and was recognised as Emperor by Theodosius who was occupied with his own troubles elsewhere. Eventually however, Maximus was forced to make a move against Gratian's younger brother, Valentinian, the Southern Emperor, who threatened his rule from Rome. He invaded Italy, took Milan and for a whole year besieged Rome, before Cynan arrived once more and finished the job. Unfortunately though, Valentinian escaped. He soon returned, backed up by the Roman Emperor of the East, Theodsoius. Maximus' forces were twice defeated at Illyricum, before he was finally killed, with his son, at Aquileia.

BIOGRAPHY: Copyright ♭2001 Britannia.com, LLC

From: The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition | Date: 2007
Print Digg del.icio.us
Magnus Clemens Maximus d. 388, Roman emperor of the West (383-388). After his followers murdered Gratian , he was recognized as ruler of Britain, Gaul, and Spain by Theodosius I . He invaded Italy in 387, expelling Valentinian II , but the following year he was defeated and put to death by Theodosius. In the reign of Maximus the heresy of Priscillian was suppressed.

Author not available, MAXIMUS, MAGNUS CLEMENS., The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition 2007

SOURCE NOTES:
http://www.american-pictures.com/genealogy/persons/per04521.htm#0

RESEARCH NOTES:
Commander of the troops in Britain, emperor 383-388

EMPORER

1 NAME Magnus /Maximus/

Magnu Maximus was born to a poor Spainish family, Probably in the province of Callaecia in north western Spain.

1 NAME Magnus /Maximus/

Magnu Maximus was born to a poor Spainish family, Probably in the province of Callaecia in north western Spain.

1 NAME Magnus /Maximus/

Magnu Maximus was born to a poor Spainish family, Probably in the province of Callaecia in north western Spain.

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