Tra centro e periferia: πόλεμοι e ἀποστάσεις durante il regno di Massimino il Trace

The aim of this paper is to discuss how Herodian’s representation of Maximinus Thrax can not be understood only through the categories of ‘soldier emperor’ and ‘tyrannus’. Even if these two have a major role in his account, other aspects need to be considered as well. In foreign affairs, the wars against the barbarians mark for Maximinus the revival of Marcus Aurelius’ goals and a way to legitimate his own power; in internal affairs, behind the polemics against the excessive taxation, is hidden the growing conflict between procuratores and senatorial governors in the provinces. Only after taking all these facets into account the revolt of A.D. 238 can be properly interpreted.