The Relationship Between the Magister Officiorum and the Secret Agents in the Late Roman Administration (4-5th Century)

Abstract

The magister officiorum was formally superior to all imperial court officials. The basis of his power was the acquisition of information, and accordingly the organisation of secret agents also fell under his authority. The aim of my study is to sketch a comprehensive picture of the relationship between the magister officiorum and the agents, shedding light on the legal problems surrounding the relationship between the magister officiorum and the agents who had served their term of office (principes officii), and on the legal disputes concerning the selection procedure and promotion of the agent’s organisation.