Ten great generals

[Kai]

I suggested Gaiseric already. His conquest of Africa caused the Fall of the Roman Empire. Theodoric and Totila are good choices, so is Belisarius. However I'd have to argue against Stilicho. His career was mostly a Political one, and although he had some major accomplishments his focus was msotly on gaining control of the east. Had he managed to do so I would have said yes to Stilicho, but if he did then I wouldn't be a fan of Aetius now would I ?

Oh sorry, I must have overlooked that...

Stilicho's career was indeed very much political. In this respect he is no different from all the other 5th century patricii of the west, including Aetius
One needed such capabilities to survive in the high ranks and I would not separate military and political affairs anyway. It really comes down to the question what makes a "great" general. Theoderic's tactical achievements for example do not seem to be overly impressive from what we know, Belisarius unilateral decision to keep fighting the Goths instead of accepting their peace offer as Justinian wanted ultimately proved disastrous for the Roman Empire and Italy. (That is why Justinian was mad at him, not the silly jealousy story). Therefore I am rather inclined to rate a general's greatness according to his overall achievements including tactics, strategy, politics, and yes, even literature