Procopius's 'Secret History' is a controversial 6th-century historical work that starkly contrasts with his more diplomatic 'Military Histories' and 'Edifices'. This candid account, written by the Byzantine historian, exposes the true nature of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora's tyrannical and corrupt reign. It delves into the political climate of Constantinople, the influence of factions, and the moral failings of key figures like General Belisarius and Antonina. The work offers a scathing critique of Justinian and ...
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Procopius's 'Secret History' is a controversial 6th-century historical work that starkly contrasts with his more diplomatic 'Military Histories' and 'Edifices'. This candid account, written by the Byzantine historian, exposes the true nature of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora's tyrannical and corrupt reign. It delves into the political climate of Constantinople, the influence of factions, and the moral failings of key figures like General Belisarius and Antonina. The work offers a scathing critique of Justinian and Theodora's extreme avarice, political oppression, and systematic exploitation of the Roman populace. It details their ruthless confiscation of wealth, imposition of arbitrary taxes, manipulation of the legal system, and neglect of public infrastructure. The author highlights their persecution of religious minorities (Montanists, Samaritans, Arians, Gentiles, Jews) and other groups, leading to widespread suffering, famine, forced emigration, and death. The 'Secret History' also covers their mismanagement of military affairs, resulting in barbarian incursions and the ruin of soldiers and landowners, and their debasement of public offices and trade for personal gain. Procopius portrays Justinian as a hypocritical liar who manipulated laws and religious matters to consolidate power, disregarding Roman traditions and imposing an autocratic court protocol. The text underscores the challenges of historical truth-telling under tyranny and questions the future of the Roman Empire under such rule.
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New. Trade paperback (US). Glued binding. 102 p. In Stock. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Brand New, Perfect Condition, allow 4-14 business days for standard shipping. To Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. protectorate, P.O. box, and APO/FPO addresses allow 4-28 business days for Standard shipping. No expedited shipping. All orders placed with expedited shipping will be cancelled. Over 3, 000, 000 happy customers.
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Fine. Sewn binding. Cloth over boards. 102 p. In Stock. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Brand New, Perfect Condition, allow 4-14 business days for standard shipping. To Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. protectorate, P.O. box, and APO/FPO addresses allow 4-28 business days for Standard shipping. No expedited shipping. All orders placed with expedited shipping will be cancelled. Over 3, 000, 000 happy customers.
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PLEASE NOTE, WE DO NOT SHIP TO DENMARK. New Book. Shipped from UK in 4 to 14 days. Established seller since 2000. Please note we cannot offer an expedited shipping service from the UK.
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New. Sewn binding. Cloth over boards. 102 p. In Stock. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Brand New, Perfect Condition, allow 4-14 business days for standard shipping. To Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. protectorate, P.O. box, and APO/FPO addresses allow 4-28 business days for Standard shipping. No expedited shipping. All orders placed with expedited shipping will be cancelled. Over 3, 000, 000 happy customers.
Add this copy of The Secret History to cart. $30.08, new condition, Sold by Ria Christie Books rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Uxbridge, MIDDLESEX, UNITED KINGDOM, published 2023 by Lulu.com.