Aelia Eudocia was a 5th-century Eastern Roman empress and accomplished poet. Born in Athens as Athenaïs to a philosopher, she converted to Christianity before marrying Emperor Theodosius II in 421. After a period of estrangement from the imperial court, she moved to Jerusalem, where she dedicated herself to the local community. She is remembered for her literary contributions, including poetic retellings of biblical narratives, and her transition from a sovereign to a religious life in the Holy City.