Constantine's Family Dynamics and Legacy

Emperor Constantine unified the Roman Empire and sought to secure his legacy through his family. A cameo in the Leyden Museum highlights key family members, including his son Crispus, who was groomed for succession. However, Crispus was executed after being accused of crimes against his stepmother, Fausta. Constantine later realized he was deceived, leading to regret and the end of his family line, as he never remarried.

What was Emperor Constantine's primary goal after unifying the Roman Empire?

• To convert the empire to Christianity

• To expand the empire further

• To secure his legacy through his descendants

• To abolish the Roman Senate

Which museum houses the artifact that depicts Constantine's family?

• The Louvre

• The British Museum

• The Leyden Museum of Antiquities

• The Vatican Museums

Who are the four key family members depicted in the artifact?

• Constantine, Helena, Theodora, and Justinian

• Constantine, Fausta, Licinius, and Maxentius

• Constantine, Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Nero

• Constantine, Helena, Fausta, and Crispus

What unusual feature is depicted in the artifact regarding Constantine and Fausta?

• They are shown fighting

• They are gazing adoringly at each other

• They are depicted as enemies

• They are shown with their backs to each other

What role was Crispus seemingly being prepared for according to the artifact?

• A religious leader

• A military general

• Imperial greatness and succession

• A senator

What led to the downfall of Crispus?

• His own ambition

• A conspiracy by the Senate

• A failed military campaign

• Accusations from his stepmother Fausta

What action did Constantine take after hearing the accusations against Crispus?

• He ignored the accusations

• He ordered Crispus's execution

• He pardoned Crispus

• He exiled Crispus

What did Constantine realize about Fausta after Crispus's execution?

• She was innocent

• She was loyal

• She had deceived him

• She was plotting against him

What was the significant personal decision Constantine made after the events with Fausta?

• He never married again

• He remarried immediately

• He converted to another religion

• He abdicated the throne

What does the story of Constantine, Fausta, and Crispus illustrate about his reign?

• The complexities of his family dynamics and political decisions

• His architectural achievements

• His religious reforms

• His military conquests