active 4th century Eutropius

Best known as the author of the Breviarium ab urbe condita, this fourth-century writer produced a compact history of Rome from its legendary beginnings to the death of Emperor Jovian in 364 CE. The work was dedicated to Emperor Valens and became valued for its clear, straightforward style.

Ancient sources and modern reference works describe him not only as a historian but also as an imperial official. He is associated with the eastern Roman court, is said to have accompanied Emperor Julian on the Persian campaign of 363, and appears to have held senior offices later in life.

For modern readers, his appeal is simple: he offers a concise doorway into Roman history. Because many larger ancient histories survive only in part, his summary has remained useful as both a readable introduction and a witness to traditions that might otherwise have been lost.