num_pages: 336
description: A vivid narrative history of one of the founding civilizations of the modern world the Byzantine empire evocatively told through the lives of its ninety-two emperors. The Byzantine empire was one of the most successful states of the Middle Ages ruling over a huge terrain straddling Europe and western Asia for eleven hundred years from the fourth to fifteenth centuries. This chronicle by Byzantine expert Kevin Lygo brings this majestic yet turbulent period to life through the lives of its the supreme military commander the head of state and Gods representative on Earth no less. These rulers who included famous figures such as Constantine the Great and Justinian I a scattering of women as well as ruthless usurpers left their mark upon the modern world with the establishment of the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith the creation of a visual template for Christian art and the magnificent artistic achievements of Hagia Sophia and Mount Athos. Each illustrated biographical entry contributes to the story of how Byzantium shaped art culture religious beliefs and justice systems as well as the role this extraordinary empire played in halting repeated invasions allowing the idea of Europe to flourish. Through this compelling history Lygo paints vivid portraits of the entire Byzantine cast with tales of petty revenge religious devotion sexual intrigue and artistic brilliance. From soaring intellectuals to illiterate peasants eunuchs and despots this is a humanizing portrayal of the individuals whose rule profoundly impacted the lives of millions. 180 color illustrations
language: English
title: The Emperors of Byzantium
publisher: Thames & Hudson