The Neoplatonist philosopher who enchanted an emperor and paid with his life

Ideas & Philosophy · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Maximus of Ephesus was a brilliant Neoplatonic thinker and a master of theurgy, the ritual art of communing with the divine. His influence over Emperor Julian was so profound that it sparked both intense political resentment and a tragic downfall, ultimately leading to his execution during a period of religious persecution.

Born around 310 AD, Maximus emerged from a wealthy family in Asia Minor to become a central figure in the late antique intellectual world. He studied in Pergamon under Aedesius alongside other notable thinkers, eventually gaining a reputation for his mastery of theurgy. His skill was such that he reportedly broke a love-spell cast upon the philosopher Sosipatra, a feat that cemented his status among his peers. By 350, he had established himself as a teacher in Ephesus, attracting students from diverse backgrounds, including those who would later become Christian bishops.

Maximus's life took a dramatic turn when he caught the attention of the future emperor Julian. Despite warnings from other philosophers about the dangers of his magical practices, Julian became his devoted student between 351 and 352. Upon ascending to the throne in 361, Julian summoned Maximus to Constantinople, where he served as a close religious and philosophical advisor. This proximity to power made Maximus a target; critics accused him of arrogance and corruption, claiming he used his position to enrich himself. Even in the emperor's final moments during the Persian campaign in 363, Maximus remained a trusted companion.

The death of Julian left Maximus vulnerable to his many enemies. He faced multiple accusations, including charges of causing illness in emperors and illicit enrichment, which led to imprisonment, torture, and the confiscation of his property. Although he briefly returned to teaching after being released by the proconsul Clearchus, his end was sealed by political paranoia. In 372, Emperor Valens, fearing a prophecy about his successor, launched a purge of polytheistic philosophers. Maximus was falsely implicated in an oracle plot and executed by the proconsul Festus. Beyond his life as a courtier, he left behind significant intellectual work, including an astrological text titled Perì katarchôn and various commentaries on Aristotle.

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