Lucius Volusius Maecianus

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Maecianus, Lucius Volusius – Codex Theodosianus, 1586 – BEIC 13788089

Lucius Volusius Maecianus was a distinguished Roman jurist and senator in the 2nd century AD, known for his contributions to Roman law and his service in the administration of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. His life and work are significant for understanding the development of legal thought and administration in the High Roman Empire.

Early Life and Career

Little is known about the early life of Lucius Volusius Maecianus. He hailed from a noble family, the Volusii, which had produced several prominent figures in Roman public life. Maecianus embarked on a career in public service, following the cursus honorum, which was the traditional path of office for Roman senators.

Contributions to Roman Law

Maecianus is most remembered for his work as a jurist. He was a student and later a colleague of the famous jurist Gaius, whose works remained influential for centuries. Maecianus himself authored several legal texts, which have been lost to history, but his contributions are noted by other ancient authors. His expertise was particularly valued in the field of fideicommissum, a form of trust in Roman law, and in the laws pertaining to inheritance.

Service under Marcus Aurelius

Under Emperor Marcus Aurelius, Maecianus held several important positions. He was appointed as the tutor to the emperor's son, Commodus, a role that underscored his esteemed status in the Roman elite. Additionally, Maecianus served as a prefect of the aerarium Saturni, the public treasury of Rome, and later as the prefect of the aerarium militare, the military treasury, roles that were crucial for the financial administration of the empire.

Legacy

Lucius Volusius Maecianus's legacy is primarily in the realm of legal scholarship. Although his own writings are lost, his influence is evident in the works of later jurists and in the legal principles that continued to guide Roman law. His career also exemplifies the roles that jurists played in the governance of the Roman Empire, not only as legal advisors but also in key administrative and educational roles.

Death and Honors

The date of Maecianus's death is not recorded, but he was honored with a funerary inscription that celebrated his contributions to the Roman state and legal system. His family continued to be influential in Rome, maintaining the legacy of public service and legal scholarship that Maecianus exemplified.