in 381, which confirmed the former as orthodoxy and the latter as a heresy. Although Theodosius interfered little in the functioning of traditional pagan cults and appointed non-Christians to high offices, he did not prevent or punish Christians for the demolition of several pagan temples of classical antiquity such as the Serapeum of Alexandria.

During the earlier part of his reign, Theodosius ruled the eastern provinces, while the west was overseen by the emperor Gratian (nominally co-ruling