Sulpicius Severus (c. 363 – between 420 and 425), wrote the earliest
biography of
Saint Martin of Tours. This work was begun during the lifetime of St. Martin, who died only in
397, and remained the most popular biography of that very popular saint.
Sulpicius Severus was an aristocrat of
Aquitaine intended for an administrative career and educated in the classical manner who, after the early death of his wife, renounced his career and entered the
monastic life.
Sulpicius' correspondence with his friend
Paulinus of Nola tells us something of Sulpicius' own life and opinions and more of his actions in founding a
monastery and decorating its buildings. Both men, members of the late
Roman senatorial aristocracy, turned to ecclesiastical careers.
Sulpicius wrote a world
chronicle, (
Chronicorum Libri duo or
Historia sacra), which extends from the creation of the world to A. D. 400, omitting the historical events recorded in the
New Testament writings. It is an important source of information for the
Arian controversy, especially with regard to
Gaul. 
