Procopius

A first century Byzantine historian offers portraits of the emperor Justinian, the empress Theodora, and Belisarius, a brilliant general and describes the injustices of Justinian's reign

The Secret History

"The last major ancient historian, Byzantine scholar PROCOPIUS OF CAESAREA (c. 500 565) traveled with the army of Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian I as a military adviser, and chronicled the wars he fought this is the primary source today of information about the reign of Justinian I. Here, in Books I and II of the eight-volume History of the Wars, Procopius recounts the Persian War between Justinian and the Persian Empire, a fascinating retelling that includes extensive details of geography and thorough accounts of battles, political intrigues, and interpersonal dramas. Far from dry, this is a thrilling read, one that echoes of this still turbulent region today. Students of the history of the Middle East will be enthralled by this ancient work. "

Books 1-2 (Persian War)

History of the Wars

The Secret History of the Court of Justinian

Procopius's "The Secret History," also known as "The Anecdota," serves as a controversial and critical chronicle of the Byzantine Empire during the reign of Emperor Justinian I and his consort, Theodora. Unlike his more formal historical works, this text employs a distinctively candid and satirical tone, blending rhetorical skill with unflinching realism. Procopius reveals the hidden machinations of the imperial court, exposing corruption, moral decay, and the stark contrast between the public persona of its rulers and their private follies. Rich in anecdotes and personal observations, this work offers not only a narrative that subverts traditional historical accounts but also a glimpse into the intertwined social and political landscapes of 6th-century Byzantium. Procopius, a prominent scholar and historian of his time, served as a legal advisor and military secretary to General Belisarius. His acute disillusionment with Justinian's regime, especially after witnessing its oppressive policies and the tragic consequences for his contemporaries, catalyzed his decision to pen "The Secret History." This duality in his literary output reflects the complexities of loyalty and truth in an age marked by autocracy and deception. Readers seeking a deepened understanding of Byzantine history will find "The Secret History" an essential text. It not only complements the more celebratory historical narratives of the time but also challenges them, providing a complex portrait of power's darker facets. Procopius's work invites readers to question the reliability of history itself while engaging them in the intrigue and drama of one of antiquity's most enigmatic courts. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Enriched edition. Unveiling the Dark Secrets of Byzantine Power and Betrayal

The Secret History or The Anecdota

In "History of the Wars: The Gothic War," Procopius intricately weaves a narrative rich in detail and political intrigue, chronicling the protracted conflicts between the Eastern Roman Empire and the Goths during the 6th century. Written in a sophisticated prose style that reflects classical historiography, this work is notable for its vivid descriptions and critical perspectives, showcasing Procopius's dual role as both a court historian and an astute observer of the tumultuous events of his time. The text situates itself within the broader context of Byzantine military history, illustrating not only the military strategies employed but also the cultural ramifications of these wars, making it an essential resource for understanding the era's complexities. Procopius, a major historian of the Byzantine Empire and a contemporary of Emperor Justinian I, gained first-hand experience of the period's political machinations and conflicts. His societal position afforded him a unique perspective, allowing him to capture both the glory and the brutality of war. His writings reflect a blend of admiration and criticism towards the ruling elite, fueled by his commitment to documenting the truth of his age amidst its chaos. For scholars and enthusiasts of Byzantine history alike, Procopius's "History of the Wars: The Gothic War" is an indispensable volume that offers profound insights into the socio-political fabric of the time. This work not only enhances our understanding of the Gothic conflicts but also serves as a compelling exploration of the human experience within the arena of war. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Enriched edition. Insights into ancient warfare and Byzantine geopolitics

History of the Wars: The Gothic War

A military official and chronicler under the Eastern Roman emperor Justinian, Procopius is a key primary source for historians studying Justinian’s reign. In addition to writing a conventional history of Justinian’s wars titled History of the Wars and a panegyric to Justinian’s construction projects titled The Buildings, Procopius composed a Secret History supposedly consisting of the incidents he withheld from his previous books. In his Secret History, which was lost for centuries before it resurfaced at the Vatican Library in Rome in the 17th century, Procopius purports to unveil the celebrated Byzantine monarchs Justinian and Theodora for who they really are: corrupt, arbitrary, and literally demonic tyrants. Although considered an authentic text, its invective tone against Justinian and Theodora and its sometimes extravagant accusations (e.g. that Justinian was a demon in human form with a vanishing head) puts it in an unclear position between fiction and history. Nevertheless, the Secret History continues to be an object of study by classicists, and Procopius’s purpose for composing such a scathing text remains an object of speculation. This book is part of the Standard Ebooks project, which produces free public domain ebooks.

The Secret History of Procopius

"It becomes, therefore, important to have a clear record as to what Justinian did, not only in Palestine but in other countries, so as to be able to judge to some extent, by well-authenticated examples, of the founders of those edifices whose history is involved in doubt. Of the writers who can give us this record, none has such authority as Procopius, or gives so much detailed information; and he has, for that reason, been largely quoted by Gibbon and by well-nigh every other writer on Byzantine history; and he gives such definite information as to the dates of many of Justinian's buildings which remain to us, as to form a standard by which to recognise the general characteristics in outline and detail adopted by his architects in his greatest works, and which characterize the style now well known as Byzantine." source

Of the Buildings of Justinian

The Secret History of the Court of Justinian by Procopius is a detailed description of the drama and various shady business of the royal notables of Byzantine Emperor Justinian's court. Contents: "Birth and character of Antonina—Her marriage with Belisarius—Her adulterous amours—Services rendered by her to Empress Theodora—Her passion for the Thracian Theodosius—Adoption of the latter—The lovers surprised by Belisarius—His weakness—Revelation made by the slave Macedonia—Flight of Theodosius—Vengeance of Antonina upon Macedonia, and upon Constantine, who had spoken insultingly of her—Theodosius refuses to return to her until the departure of her son Photius—Retirement of Photius—Demands of Theodosius—His return—Infatuation of Belisarius—His return to Byzantium—Theodosius enters a cloister at Ephesus—Despair of Antonina—She causes him to be recalled—His resistance—His secret return."

Secret History

This book tells the history of this period in detail: in the 6th century, while in Gaul, the Franks carved out a kingdom for themselves from the spoils of the Western Roman Empire, which the Visigoths dominate the steps of Spain, the Vandals crossed the sea to establish themselves in North Africa, where their kingdom has prospered for a century, and where they taste the delights of a refined way of life far from the harsh northern climate.

The Vandalic War

History of the Wars, Books III and IV

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. Procopius, born at Caesarea in Palestine late in the 5th century, became a lawyer. In 527 CE he was made legal adviser and secretary of Belisarius, commander against the Persians, and went with Belisarius again in 533 against the Vandals and in 535 against the Ostrogoths. Sometime after 540 he returned to Constantinople. He may have been that Procopius who was prefect of Constantinople in 562, but the date of his death (after 558) is unknown. Procopius's History of the Wars in 8 books recounts the Persian Wars of emperors Justinus and Justinian down to 550 (2 books); the Vandalic War and after-events in Africa 532-546 (2 books); the Gothic War against the Ostrogoths in Sicily and Italy 536-552 (3 books); and a sketch of events to 554 (1 book). The whole consists largely of military history, with much information about peoples and places as well, and about special events. He was a diligent, careful, judicious narrator of facts and developments and shows good powers of description. He is just to the empire's enemies and boldly criticises emperor Justinian. Other works by Procopius are the Anecdota or Secret History--vehement attacks on Justinian, Theodora, and others; and The Buildings of Justinian (down to 558 CE) including roads and bridges as well as churches, forts, hospitals, and so on in various parts of the empire. The Loeb Classical Library edition of Procopius is in seven volumes.

Procopius: History of the wars, books III and IV. The Vandalic war

History of the Wars, Secret History, and Buildings

Procopius: History of the wars, books I and II. The Persian war

"History of the Wars - Volume I" from Procopius. Prominent late antique scholar from Palaestina Prima (500-565A.D.).

Procopius

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