Coin of Theodoric, Ravenna 518 - 526

Editor: Here we have a coin of Theodoric, likely from Ravenna. It’s small, worn, but still carries a weight of history. What stories can we unearth from such a seemingly simple object? Curator: Indeed. This isn't just currency; it's a statement. Theodoric, an Ostrogothic king ruling in Italy, consciously echoed Roman imperial imagery on his coins to legitimize his power. What does it mean when a "barbarian" ruler adopts the symbols of the empire he conquered? Editor: So, it’s about cultural appropriation and power dynamics? Curator: Exactly. It reveals a complex negotiation of identity, where the conqueror seeks to be seen as a successor, not just a destroyer. Consider how contemporary societies use or misuse historical symbols. What continuities and disruptions do you see? Editor: I never thought a coin could speak so loudly about colonialism and identity. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure! Hopefully, it allows us to think critically about power, representation, and the legacies we inherit.