ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that the discourse of the Collectio Avellana is in fact characterised by even stronger thematic coherence. The 'fashioning spirit' of the Avellana is broader than the easily discernible interest in schisms and papal-imperial relations, and builds an image of the papacy as independent of Ostrogothic influence. The real challenge in formulating a unified interpretation for the Avellana and redeeming it from a lingering aura of idiosyncrasy comes from the earlier material in the collection that connected to the schisms of Damasus/Ursinus and Boniface/Eulalius. In light of the weight given to the Acacian schism and the healing of this schism later in the collection, the presence of these letters in the Avellana could be explained by a more general interest in schism and resolution of schism. The Avellana preserves a unique perspective on the history of the early sixth century, and on the relations between the papacy, the Ostrogothic court in Ravenna and the imperial court in Constantinople.
