The Secret History: with Related Texts

(Hardback)

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Description

By exposing the perversion, repression, corruption, and injustice at the heart of Justinian's regime, Prokopios' The Secret History destroyed forever that emperor's reputation as the great and benevolent ruler of a vast Byzantine state.

Faithfully rendered here in blunt and idiomatic English, Prokopios' tell-all is as shocking today as it was in the sixth century. Kaldellis' substantial Introduction addresses, among other topics, the historical background to The Secret History; Prokopios' literary style and major themes; and the relationships between Prokopios, Justinian, and Empress Theodora. Maps, genealogies, a glossary, and a selection of related texts (including excerpts from Prokopios' Wars and Buildings and several contemporary documents) enhance and support the reading of this scandalous and suspenseful book.

Reviews

"By far the most accurate translation now available, with useful supporting documents for teaching, and a comprehensive and enlightening introduction that even experienced Byzantinists will want to read." -- Michael Kulikowski, University of Tennessee

Author Bio

Anthony Kaldellis is Professor of Greek and Latin, The Ohio State University.