General Notes

Ruler (408-50) of the eastern Roman Empire, Theodosius II, b. Apr. 10, 401, d.
July 28, 450, was the son and successor of Arcadius.  Theodosius, basically a
scholar, tended to let others--including his sister Pulcheria (399-453) and
his wife, Eudocia (d. 460)--influence state decisions.  Despite this weakness,
he inspired his generals to repel invading Persians in 421, 422, and 441.  His
administration was highlighted by the Council of Ephesus (431;
and publication of the Theodosian Code of laws (438).  Theodosius
was succeeded by Marcian (r. 450-57).