Prokopios z Kaisareie bol významný historik Justiniánovej éry, ktorý sa preslávil svojim detailným opisom vojen. Vďaka svojej službe generálovi Belisarovi získal hlboké znalosti vojenských záležitostí a stal sa kľúčovým svedkom udalostí svojej doby. Jeho spisy sú cenené pre svoju podrobnosť a predstavujú jeden z najdôležitejších zdrojov pre štúdium neskorej antiky a raného byzantského obdobia. Je považovaný za najväčšieho z neskorších gréckych historikov, ktorého dielo ovplyvnilo chápanie tejto kľúčovej éry.
In Secret History the Byzantine historian Procopius (late fifth century to after 558 CE) attacks the sixth century CE emperor Justinian and empress Theodora and alleges their ruinous effect on the Roman empire. Procopius' pen is particularly sharp in portraying Theodora's lewdness, duplicity, cruelty, spite, vanity and pride.
History of the Wars by the Byzantine historian Procopius (late fifth century to after 558 CE) consists largely of sixth century CE military history, with much information about peoples, places, and special events. Powerful description complements careful narration. Procopius is just to the empire s enemies and boldly criticises emperor Justinian.
Focusing on the life and works of Procopius, this book explores his significance as the last major ancient historian of Eastern Rome. It highlights his primary role as a source for understanding Emperor Justinian's reign through his comprehensive writings, including an eight-book account of the Gothic Wars and a detailed examination of Justinian's public works. Notably, the "Secret History" reveals scandals and controversies omitted from official narratives, offering a unique perspective on the period.
Focusing on the intimate and revealing accounts of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, this work offers a candid portrayal of key historical figures, including Belisarius and his wife Antonina. Procopius, a learned legal adviser and historian from 6th-century Palestine, documents his experiences in war and court life, providing a brutally honest perspective on imperialism. Rediscovered in the 17th century after being lost for centuries, it stands as a crucial source for understanding the era, appealing to scholars and history enthusiasts alike.
This classical work offers a vital exploration of the events and intrigues within the court of Emperor Justinian, shedding light on a significant period in history. Alpha Editions has undertaken the task of preserving this essential text by republishing it in a modern format, ensuring clarity and readability. The book has been meticulously reformatted and retyped, distinguishing it from scanned copies, making it accessible for both present and future generations.
Set against the backdrop of the 6th century Byzantine Empire, the narrative provides a critical view of Emperor Justinian I's reign, contrasting with Procopius' more flattering accounts. As an advisor to General Belisarius, Procopius reveals the political intrigues, power struggles, and corruption within the imperial court. This work exposes the darker aspects of this historical period, showcasing scandals that affected key figures and inviting readers to explore the complexities of Byzantine politics and society during a transformative era.
