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Aristocratic Adjustment Analysis

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Aristocratic Adjustment
The 5th century was a time of increased interactions and turmoil throughout Europe. One writer that portrays some of the major changes that occurred during this era is Caius Sollius Modestus Apollimaris Sidonius, or simply Sidonius. Sidonius was a Roman aristocrat who lived roughly between c.431-c.489 and experienced the end of the Roman Empire. During his life, Sidonius wrote letters regarding the transformation of Gaul, the Roman province where he lived, into the property of Frankish kings. Two letters, one to a fellow aristocrat and one to his brother-in-law, provide specific examples of the lifestyles and relationships during this time. I believe Sidonius’ letters demonstrate how the lifestyles of both the Gallo-Roman aristocracy and the Gothic aristocracy adjusted during the transformation of the Roman world.
Roman aristocrats in 5th century Gaul lived idyllic lifestyles that continued unaffected despite the province’s change in leadership. A prime document regarding upper-class living is Sidonius’ letter to his friend Donidius. This letter, written around AD 461-7, records Sidonius’ stay in Nimes at the homes of Tonantius Ferreolus and Apollinaris as an explanation for why he has not yet visited Donidius. Sidonius introduces Ferreolus and Apollinaris by describing their overabundant hospitality. To ensure that travelers do not pass by their houses untreated, Ferreolus and Apollinaris have posted scouts along the roads and in the woods to meet

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