Arbitio

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Arbitio was a Frank that lived in the middle of the 4th century. He was a general of Constantine the Great and reached the highest military positions in the Roman army under Constantius II and became commander of the cavalry in Gaul. In 355 he was made Consul together with Quintus Flavius Maesius Egnatius Lollianus.

Arbitio was a well trusted courtier of Constantius and some modern historians have suggested he was his military strongman.

Arbitio served under Silvanus and Barbatio and played a role in both their downfall. Historian Ammianus Marcellinus, who must have met Arbitio in person, says he was "keen and eager in plotting treachery", and describes him as "fickle flatterer" to Constantius II.

After the death of Constantius in 361 he served Julian the Apostate and was chairman of the Chalcedon tribunal. In this function he was responsible for the conviction of Paul the Chain and many ministers and followers of Constantius.

Sources

Ammianus Marcellinus, Loeb Classical Library

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