A Short History of the Byzantine Empire: Revised Edition (Short Histories)

Incorporating the latest scholarly developments to offer an in-depth account of the history of the Byzantine Empire, this revised edition sheds new light on the Empire’s culture, theology, and economic and socio-political spheres. Charting from the Empire’s origins, to its expansion and influence over the Mediterranean, later revival, and eventual fall – this book covers more than 1,000 years of history. With analysis of the Empire’s changing social infrastructure, key events, and the broader cultural environment, Stathakopoulos expertly analyses how and why it became a powerhouse of literature, art, theology and learning, whilst also examining its aftermath and afterlife – and enduring significance today. Drawing on a variety of English and non-English sources, in addition to a plethora of visual and textual materials, this book is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and general readers alike. Series Page 2 Half Title 6 Copyright Page 7 Dedication 8 Contents 10 Illustrations 11 Preface to the revised edition 14 Acknowledgements 16 About the book 18 Introduction: What is Byzantium? 24 Chapter 1: Becoming the Eastern Roman Empire, 330–491 40 Chapter 2: Masters of the Mediterranean, 491–602 60 Chapter 3: Negotiating retraction, 602–717 78 Chapter 4: From survival to revival, 717–867 96 Chapter 5: Expansion and radiance, 867–1056 114 Chapter 6: The appearance of strength, 1056–1204 134 Chapter 7: The legacy of fragmentation, 1204–1341 154 Chapter 8: Heading for the fall, 1341–1453 174 Chapter 9: Aftermath and afterlife 192 Appendices 210 I Timeline 210 II Peoples around Byzantium 215 Further reading 220 Index 246