The eldest son of Theodosius became emperor of the East after his father Theodosius I's death in 395. Arcadius was educated in Constantinople and is described as a weak personality dominated by powerful court figures, whose schemes and emnities raised tensions with their western colleagues under the leadership of Stilicho. Arcadius had three daughters, Pulcheria, Arcadia and Marina.

The Baths of Arcadius are said to have been named after him, or his daughter Arcadia.