Favored by God

Theodosius II married a Greek girl called Athenaïs, who after the marriage was renamed - in line with the Theodosian tradition - Aelia Eudocia. Holum, Theodosian Empresses, 121.Aelia Eudocia was also made augusta in 423, so now there were two empresses at court. The power of Theodosius’ wife was based on her ability to give birth to an heir. She was crucial to the survival of the dynasty. Pulcheria lacked the form of power that came with having children because of her vow of chastity. So how was she able to hold on to her position?

It was really her display of faith that secured her influence. She had made that vow of chastity, and made sure to present herself as the perfect Christian woman. She made all the women in the imperial household follow her lead, giving up luxury, praying multiple times a day, devoting themselves to weaving and other typically female activities - almost living like nuns. Holum, Theodosian Empresses, 91. It was believed that by being a prime example of a good Christian woman, she secured God’s favor for the Empire, which was of course very significant. The text Salus Rei Publicae on this coin signifies God’s protection and preservation of the state, secured by the virtue of Pulcheria.

Moreover, she had made herself popular with influential Christian leaders, particularly by influencing religious policy in their favor. For example, synagogues were traditionally allowed and even protected, but under Pulcheria’s influence laws were passed that revoked that protection and condoned the destruction of synagogues. Furthermore, non-Christians were now actively excluded from holding positions in the army or the administration.Holum, Theodosian Empresses, 98-100. These Christian leaders were in turn very useful to Pulcheria, because they could advocate for her among the people of the Empire.

Lastly, Pulcheria was a businesswoman. She was a patron to local business and owned her own estates, creating personal wealth to spend as she pleased. She used the money mainly for charity, personally supporting Christian causes.Holum, Theodosian Empresses, 134-138. This philanthropy made her popular among the people, and possibly gave her an edge compared to Aelia Eudocia.

Looking at her reputation as a devout Christian, Pulcheria probably saw it as her duty to defend the faith, which brings us to the next feature of this coin…