Exploring the historical trajectory of Byzantium, the narrative spans from the early Roman Empire to modern times, positing that it represents the most stable and enduring manifestation of Greco-Roman society. The book challenges conventional perspectives by highlighting the resilience and continuity of Byzantine culture and governance throughout centuries, offering a nuanced understanding of its significance in shaping European history.
The book challenges the conventional understanding of the Byzantine Empire, arguing that the term "Byzantine" was never used by its rulers. Kaldellis emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Romanness of the empire's inhabitants, suggesting that their identity has been misunderstood and misrepresented by later generations. Through this exploration, the author seeks to reshape the historical narrative surrounding the empire and its people.
In 1039 Byzantium was the most powerful empire in Europe and the Near East, controlling the Balkans south of the Danube and all of Asia Minor into Armenia and Syria. By 1079 it had become a politically unstable state half the size, menaced by powerful enemies on all sides.
Presenting a wealth of new evidence, Professor Kaldellis examines the history of Byzantine Athens. He focuses specifically on the Parthenon, which became a Christian church and a major site of pilgrimage and was part of a broader attempt to fuse pagan and Christian culture in the city.
Texts in Translation, with Introductions and Notes
The book features translations of Byzantine texts that analyze ancient historians, providing insights into how Greek historiography was received in the Byzantine era. Each translation is supplemented with an introduction and notes, offering context and explaining the purpose behind the writings. This collection illuminates the interplay between ancient and Byzantine perspectives on history, showcasing the enduring influence of classical thought in later periods.
The Transformations of Greek Identity and the Reception of the Classical Tradition
Exploring the identity of being 'Greek' during late antiquity and the Byzantine era, this book delves into cultural, social, and political dimensions. It analyzes how Greek identity evolved amidst changing empires and influences, highlighting the significance of language, religion, and heritage. Through a comprehensive examination of historical texts and artifacts, it sheds light on the complexities of identity formation and the enduring legacy of Greek culture in a transformative period of history.
A Cabinet of Byzantine Curiosities will reinforce these old prejudices, while also stimulating a deeper interest among readers in one of history's most interesting civilizations. Many of the zanier tales and trivia that are collected here revolve around the political and religious life of Byzantium.
Kaldellis argues that the labels "Byzantium" and "the Byzantines" misrepresent the true nature and identity of the society under study. He advocates for a rebranding of Byzantine Studies to better reflect the historical reality of this civilization. Through his analysis, he challenges longstanding perceptions and encourages a reevaluation of how this influential society is understood and categorized by historians.
Focusing on the political and military history of Byzantium, this comprehensive narrative spans from the establishment of Constantinople in 324 AD to its fall to the Ottoman Turks in the fifteenth century. It offers an accessible exploration of twelve centuries, highlighting significant shifts in religion, society, administration, demography, and economy without the use of jargon. This work serves as a vital resource for understanding the complexities and transformations of the eastern Roman Empire.
In this companion to the two-volume Dumbarton Oaks Medieval Library translation of The Histories by Laonikos Chalkokondyles, Anthony Kaldellis explores the ethnic dynamics that undergird the Histories, which recount the rise of the Ottoman empire and the decline of the Byzantine empire, all in the context of expanding western power.