[gothic-l] Question: Maeotidae=Goths?

[dirk at SMRA.CO.UK]

The Vita Taciti mentiones that Emperor Aurelian had enlisted the aid
of several barbarian tribes, including the Heruli and
Maeotidae (referred to as Scythians in the sources), for a projected
invasion of Parthia. Aurelian's murder cancelled these plans. Feeling
cheated of their opportunity for plunder, the Heruli and Scythians
attacked the Roman provinces in Asia Minor, overrunning Pontus,
Galatia, Cappadocia and Cilicia, and caused terrible destruction.
Tacitus appointed his half-brother Florian Praetorian Prefect. They
campaigned in the East against the invaders, winning Tacitus the title
'Gothicus Maximus'.

>From this text, which is from De Imperatoribus Romanis, it seems to be
that the Goths are also refered to as Maeotidae, besides their usual
name of Scythians, is that correct?

cheers,

Dirk


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