The wife of Arcadius, Eudoxia had no desire to remain in the
political background that was expected of an empress. Instead, she thoroughly
dominated not only the will of Arcadius (who was, incidentally, content to relax
well out of the limelight) but also play an active role in the political issues
of the day and the religious ones as well. In this light she was resented by
many who saw her self-acquired role unwelcome and was denounced as arrogant and
materialistic. Those who had the nerve to condemn her could always count on
swift retribution on her orders and this only served to further alienate those
who weren't on her "good side". Honorius himself was said to complain to his
brother Arcadius about the situation but the eastern emperor apparently never
took any steps to suppress his wife's activities. Despite the negative view of
her that has survived it seems apparent that she took advantage of her imperial
position to live life to its fullest as she saw fit without regard for keeping
appearances.
She died at the age of only 21 due to complications following childbirth.
AE 3 395--404 A.D.
Constantinople, Officina 3
2.2g., 16 mm.
Obv. AEL EVDOXIA AVG: Diademed and draped bust right, with wreath over her head
Rev. GLORIA ROMANORVM: Eudoxia seated facing on a throne. CONS(Gamma) in exergue