Cover of The Origin and Deeds of the Goths

The Origin and Deeds of the Goths

by Jordanes

First published
2005
Reading level
Plain English
Price
Free

About the book

"The Origin and Deeds of the Goths" by active 6th century Jordanes is a historical work written in 551 AD. Claiming to summarize a lost account by Cassiodorus, it traces Gothic history from their mythical Scandinavian origins through their migrations and conflicts with Rome, ending with their defeat by Byzantine general Belisarius. The only surviving extended account of Gothic history, it blends legendary tales—including encounters with Troy and Egyptian pharaohs—with more credible later events, sparking ongoing debate about where mythology ends and history begins.

  • Attila, -453
  • Goths
  • Germanic peoples

Updated September 2026. Public domain in the USA. Text and summary from Project Gutenberg eBook #14809. The Origin and Deeds of the Goths on Wikipedia.