Hello everyone,Here are 3 podcast-related things you may be interested in.Roman Graphic NovelFriend of the show Marco Capelli has made a comic book set in 6th century Italy. It follows two figures that we know about from an Ostrogothic jewellery collection that was discovered in 1938. A Roman Patrician Stephanus who marries a Gothic noblewoman Valatrud. They are subjects of King Theodoric who is trying to create a functioning Gothic-Roman kingdom in Italy. But their union comes shortly before Italy submerges into chaos. And Justinian sends Belisarius out to retake the home peninsula.You can get your hands on a copy in English or Italian. In paper or in a digital format. Plus loads of other goodies are available from Marco’s Kickstarter campaign.The Kickstarter ends on October 11th so act now.Tour of GreeceLantern Jack, the host of the podcast Ancient Greece Declassified, is leading a tour to Greece.It’s taking place from January 3rd to the 11th 2025. And it visits every site connected with the famous war between the Persians and the Athenians and Spartans. If you want to go you will visit the Acropolis, the Straits of Salamis, Marathon, Eubeoa, Thermopylae, Delphi, Plataea and you’ll get to try on Hoplite Armour!Click here to find out moreThe History of Byzantium T-ShirtsFinally my new friend Magnus who creates Roman themed merchandise on Etsy has created an actual History of Byzantium podcast t-shirt. Or I should say t-shirts. Branded with the podcast logo you have several to choose from. I’m sure they will light up any occasion you go to with looks of confusion and bewilderment. But I think they look beautiful.Check them out here. He also has t-shirts and mugs celebrating lesser figures than me – such as Constantine, Justinian, Basil II, Marcus Aurelius and others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Andronikos' son dies he ponders whether to disinherit his Grandson Andronikos III. This prompts two bouts of civil war as the younger generation try to force change on their elders.Period: 1310-1328 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andronikos roles the dice and hires the Catalan Grand Company to fight the Turks. Those who advised the Emperor not to hire them could never have imagined just how badly things would go. Meanwhile Latin forces continue to take Aegean islands for themselves.Period: 1281-1303 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at Andronikos II Palailogos' domestic arrangements and European wars. After disbanding his fleet to save money the Emperor was repeatedly humiliated by the Venetians. We also look at the Emperor's personality to understand why he was not best suited to the difficult times he lived in.Period: 1281-1303 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The arrival of the Mongols in Anatolia would eventually lead to the expulsion of the Romans. Mongol dominance of the plateau sent waves of tribes into Byzantine territory. It was a crisis which the Emperor Andronikos was not equal to.Period: 1281-1303 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Union of Lyons had unleashed bitter division within Byzantium. We follow Michael and his son Andronikos as they try to make peace with the various factions that had opposed them. Period: 1281-1310 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Pope responds with despair to the news of Constantinople's fall. He calls for a Crusade to restore the Latin position. The man who answers is the brother of the King of France, Charles of Anjou. Michael Palaiologos is willing to do whatever it takes to stop them. This means he must agree to church union.Period: 1261-82 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael VIII Palaiologos enters the city of Constantine for the first time. He has a lot of work to do to rebuild the city and restore its prestige. He must also navigate a complex diplomatic position which sees his forces in action on five fronts simultaneously.Period: 1261-5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at listener questions about this period of narrative. Were the Varangian Guard still employed at Nicaea? Had Greek Fire been lost? How many Emperors are actually Saints? Why did Nicaea win? Should they have moved back to Constantinople? Were the Romans Greeks now? Period: 1204-61 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about the challenges which Michael Palaiologos and the Nicaens faced as they prepared to move back to Constantinople. Period: 1204-61 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about the Latin occupied parts of Byzantium. What was life like for the conquered and the conquerors? Was the occupation a colonial enterprise?Period: 1204-61 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Nicholas Morton returns to tell us the story of the Fifth Crusade. To learn more check out his book The Mongol Storm: Making and Breaking Empires in the Medieval Near East.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our 300th episode I decided to do something different. I chose my 10 greatest Byzantine Emperors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Constantinople back in Roman hands we explore the one vantage point we've ignored: the last Latin Emperor Baldwin II. Dr John Giebfried returns to give us Baldwin's biography.Period: 1215-61 John completed his PhD in Medieval History at St Louis University in 2015 and has subsequently worked at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Georgia Southern University, East Georgia State College, and since 2022 has been a faculty member at the University of Vienna, where he teaches History and Digital Humanities. His academic work focuses on the Crusades, the Crusader-States, and European interactions with the Mongols. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theodore Laskaris II beds down his father's conquests in Europe. But his early death sees his family sidelined by Michael Palaiologos. The new Emperor needs some victories to legitimise his seizure of power and the fates reward him beyond all expectations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Bulgarians and Turks hobbled by the Mongols the field is clear for Nicaea. John Vatatzes annexes a huge swathe of European territory and is widely recognised as the true Roman Emperor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk to Dr Nicholas Morton about the arrival of the Mongols into the Byzantine world. Their confrontation with the Seljuks of Anatolia will have serious consequences.Dr Morton is Associate Professor in Middle Eastern and Global history at Nottingham Trent University in the UK. His new book The Mongol Storm: Making and Breaking Empires in the Medieval Near East is available now.In it he offers a panoramic account of the Mongol invasions of the Middle East during the thirteenth century, examining these wars from the perspectives of the many different societies impacted by their conquests, including of course Byzantium. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While Epirus was rising and falling, Nicaea was consolidating. John Vatatzes, the new Emperor, was competent at home and abroad. After years of consolidation he decided to besiege Constantinople. But he didn't act alone he invited an unlikely ally to join him.Period: 1215-37 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theodoros Doukas the leader of the Roman state of Epirus leads his people to ever greater heights in the 1220s. He captures Thessalonica and drives towards Constantinople itself. Doukas declares himself Emperor but does he have the resources necessary to reach the Hagia Sophia?Period: 1215-30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we look at Constantinople itself. What was the physical state of the city and what was the Latin administration like? Guiding us today is Dr John Giebfried.John completed his PhD in Medieval History at St Louis University in 2015 and has subsequently worked at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Georgia Southern University, East Georgia State College, and since 2022 has been a faculty member at the University of Vienna, where he teaches History and Digital Humanities. His academic work focuses on the Crusades, the Crusader-States, and European interactions with the Mongols.Reacting to the Past Games: https://reactingconsortium.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we look at the parts of the Roman Empire we haven't covered so far in the post-siege narrative. This includes Attalia, Trebizond and the multiple acquisitions of Venice. Helping me is Dr John Giebfried from the University of Vienna. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Komnenos Doukas would have had a forgettable career if it wasn't for the chaos which followed Manuel Komnenos' death.But the twists of fate allowed him to found a new state in Epirus (Western Greece) which would eventually seize huge parts of the Roman world.Period: 1204-15 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We follow Theodore Laskaris as he escapes from Constantinople and establishes a new state at Nicaea. Crowned as the new Roman Emperor he must face down rivals on every side including the Turks.Period: 1204-12 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Baldwin and Boniface dead the Bulgarians run riot across Thrace. Their Tsar Kaloyan attempts to capture Thessalonica and ponders whether he could become the new Roman Emperor.Period: 1204-07 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After throwing a huge strop Boniface, the Marquis of Montferrat, is made King of Thessalonica.He sent his men to conquer most of Greece but the Bulgarians were on his tail.Period: 1204-07 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Latins agree to stay for another year and to conquer the whole of the Roman Empire. They elect Count Baldwin of Flanders and Hainaut to be their Emperor and all seems well. It only takes a year for everything to fall apart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The narrative returns as we head back to 1204 and the sack of Constantinople. The arrival of the Latins had actually splintered the Roman world into at least 13 different states.With a little help from the 2008 film 'Vantage Point' we will be following the different perspectives of these actors as they deal with the fallout from the sack.We begin with the story of Alexios V Doukas who fled the city just before it fell.Period: 1204 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I speak to Rob and Jamie from the podcast Totalus Rankium. Their show is a light hearted ranking of every Roman Emperor from Augustus to Constantine XI. It's a really fun listen and they include all the amusing stories which I edited out of Byzantine history.They have a sister show where they rank American Presidents. Find both shows here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexander Christie-Miller was the Turkish correspondent for the Times Newspaper between 2010 and 2017. He has written a book called ‘To the City’ about the people who live along the Theodosian Walls in Istanbul today. He tells the story and charts the sweeping changes they've experienced in Turkey over the past 50 years. It's a brilliant read, ideal for those of you who have visited Istanbul or plan to.Alexander Christie-Miller is from Wiltshire in the UK, studied in Dublin and was then in Istanbul for 7 years. He was the Times Turkish correspondent during that period and his writing has also appeared in Newsweek, The Atlantic, Der Spiegel and the White Review amongst other publications. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Kaldellis' new history of Byzantium is out now in the USA and on Kindle everywhere.In the final episode in this series he answers more of your questions. Amongst the topics we cover are citizenship, class, counter-factuals, academia and AI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Kaldellis' new history of Byzantium is out now in the USA and on Kindle everywhere.In this episode he answers your questions. Including succession mechanisms, taxation, the Senate, usurpers, Belisarius, Maurice and many more topics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s update I’m going to tell you about when the narrative is coming back, about podcast tours to Turkey in 2024 and about how Anthony Kaldellis is answering more questions than I told him to. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new book has come out about that most famous of Byzantines. It's called Justinian: Emperor, Soldier, Saint by Peter Sarris and it is excellent. It is not a dramatization of his career but a brilliantly researched account of his life and time in office.Track his evolving thinking through the amazing range of sources we have for his reign and gain a deeper understanding of the interesting times he lived in.The book is on sale everywhere including on Audible.com. To listen to the book for free check out Audible's service here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This beautiful map of the Crusader States has just been put on sale. Adomas, the artist, is offering 15% off any map at his store for podcast listeners. Just use the code Byzantium at his online store. mapklimantas.etsy.com‘The Emperor’ by Matthew Storm: http://tinyurl.com/juj44cdb. The Heraclius story is so epic that it took two books to cover. Book 1 is called the Exarch’s son. And Book 2 is THE EMPEROR: Heraclius Battles Persia for the Life of Rome.‘The Gardens of Byzantium’: http://tinyurl.com/nhh6b4jw A romance about Asana (a Persian woman) and a Roman soldier who are brought together by Heraclius’ war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Kaldellis' new history of Byzantium is out now in the USA and on Kindle everywhere.In our third conversation we walk through the narrative picking out interesting things to talk about. The creation of Constantinople, Justinian's personality, Heraclius' achievements and life under the Sassanian occupation to name a few.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

50 episodes ago Dr Maximilian Lau came on the podcast to talk about John II Komnenos. Max kindly shared his book with me before publication to guide the podcast through John's reign.Now he is back on the show to catch up on the next century of Byzantine history and to give us the great news that the book has been published.The book is 'Emperor John II Komnenos: Rebuilding New Rome 1118-1143'. You can buy the book here and if you use the discount code AAFLYG6 you can 30% off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Illness Update December 2023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Kaldellis' new history of Byzantium is out now in the USA and on Kindle everywhere.In our second conversation we discuss the adoption of Christianity as the Roman religion. How much did Roman society change as a result? Why was early Christianity so riven with disputes?We also talk about the function of the law in Roman society. How did it help define individual rights and responsibilities beyond criminal behaviour?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Kaldellis' new history of Byzantium is out now in the USA and on Kindle everywhere. He has kindly agreed to talk to us about it across 4 episodes!In this first conversation we discuss the new Roman government that Constantine established in 330AD. What was the 'personality' of government? How did it achieve legitimacy in the eyes of the people? Was it really a Republican Monarchy?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Holland is the author of half a dozen brilliant books on the ancient world. He has now written three on the Roman Empire. The latest 'Pax' takes the story from the death of Nero to that of Hadrian. It's the golden age of Roman power and yet insecurity and anxiety lie under the surface. I talk to Tom about how he gains insight into people so utterly different to us.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October 2023 Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

American author Robert Bruton takes us through his Master’s thesis on the role of climate change and plague in the decline of Roman fortunes in the 6th century.He is also writing a trilogy of historical fiction novels about the life of Belisarius. Find out more about Robert and his work here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Kaldellis returns to give us his 10 Worst Emperors.He is a Professor in the Department of Classics at the University of Chicago and the author of dozens of books and articles on key aspects of Byzantine history.Find out more here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Guardians of Byzantium - Book 2 is now available. Listen for a special offer to get hold of both books today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk to historian Adrian Goldsworthy about his new book. It covers the 700 year rivalry between the two great powers of the ancient world. Everything from Crassus having gold poured down his throat to Heraclius returning the True Cross to Jerusalem.Dr Goldsworthy is an award winning historian of the classical world. He has written a dozen books on Greco-Roman topics including biographies of Julius Caesar and Augustus. As well as studies of the Roman army and the Empire’s rise and fall. So if you like what you hear today there is a small library of Goldsworthy goodness waiting for you to read. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk to Katherine Pangonis about her new book - Twilight Cities: Lost Capitals of the Mediterranean. In it she travels to Tyre, Carthage, Syracuse, Ravenna and Antioch to tell their stories and experience what remains.It's a fantastic book for those who want to learn more about these ancient power centres and be inspired to visit them.We spoke to Katherine about her first book 'Queens of Jerusalem' back in episode 238. She returned to tell us about the devastating earthquakes in Turkey in February 2023. Find out more about her at her website.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at the stories of three different Romans who had to deal with their city being sacked. Through their experiences we come to a better understanding of the loss felt by those who lived through the fall of Constantinople in 1204. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNG EARS.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 2023 Schedule Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our final batch of questions for this century includes queries about the Hippodrome, diplomatic marriages, national identity and political legitimacy. We also enjoy an update on the Crimea, the Jewish communities of Byzantium and the Varangian Guard. I also talk about the perception of time and rank some dynasties.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look at the pros and cons of the Komnenian system. Then trace why it was causing enough resentment to lead to provincial separatism.We then move on to discuss the army and the bureaucracy and the people of Constantinople. Looking at how each was affecting political stability in the run up to the Fourth Crusade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nathan Websdale is a PHD candidate at Oxford University and President of the Oxford University Byzantine Society. His work is focussed on ethnic identification, social inclusion and self-determination in the Byzantine World, c.1200-c.1230.Nathan graduated with a BA (First Class) in History from Royal Holloway, University of London in 2016 and an MA (Merit) in Late Antique and Byzantine Studies from the Intercollegiate University of London in 2017.I talk to Nathan about the thorny issue of provincial separatism before and after the Fourth Crusade.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More questions to tackle this week. Comparing the sack of 1204 to the sack of Rome in 410. Questioning the Byzantine system of succession and the roots of their decline. And pondering whether other Emperors rose to power like Alexios Angelos - on the back of a foreign army.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Anthony Kaldellis has just completed a new history of Byzantium which will be published in October 2023. So I cheekily asked him if he would list his 10 greatest Emperors. Graciously he agreed to apply his immense knowledge to this frivolous topic.He is a Professor in the Department of Classics at the University of Chicago. This is his third interview on the History of Byzantium. I talked to him about two of his books 'The Byzantine Republic' and 'Streams of Gold, Rivers of Blood: The Rise and Fall of Byzantium, 955 A.D. to the First Crusade.' But he is the author of over a dozen books on Byzantium along with translations of texts and many articles. Find out more here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer more questions about the Fourth Crusade and the sack of Constantinople. What was the reaction of other nations? Did people see it as sign of the end times? What did the Byzantines think of the Templars and Hospitallers? What were the religious differences between the Orthodox and the Catholics? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer more questions about the Fourth Crusade and the sack of Constantinople. We talk about why the Roman response was so feeble and if anything else could have been done? Along with questions about the tombs of the Emperors, statues, coins and ships.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer listener questions about the Fourth Crusade. This episode focuses on the big picture. Who is to blame? Was it inevitable? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a special episode to urge listeners to donate to the ongoing relief effort in Turkey and Syria. I interview two expert guests about the situation with a particular focus on the city of Antakya (Byzantine Antioch).Andrea De Giorgi is a Professor of Classical Studies at Florida State University. He specializes in Roman urbanism and visual culture and has written many books and articles on the subject. He co-authored the fantastic book Antioch. A History which I thoroughly recommend. Dr. De Giorgi has also directed excavations and surveys in Turkey, Syria, Georgia, Jordan, and the UAE. Since 2013, he has codirected the Cosa Excavations in Italy and, since 2021, the Coastal Caesarea Archeological Project in Israel; currently, he is studying the 1930s Antioch and Daphne collections at the Princeton University Art Museum.Katherine Pangonis is a historian and author of the book ‘Queens of Jerusalem’ who I interviewed back in episode 238 of the podcast. Her second book - to be published this summer - is called ‘Twilight Cities: Lost Capitals of the Mediterranean.’ In it she explores famous cities from antiquity like Tyre, Carthage and Ravenna. Cities who once ruled whole Empires and were littered with magnificent buildings but have been somewhat forgotten. One of the cities she covers is Antioch. She also hosts the podcast - Women Who Dared to Write. This is an appeal for you to donate to one of the various charities who are rushing to the scene at this moment to help the survivors. You have a number of options. You may have campaigns being run in your country by reputable organisations. So here in the UK the Disaster Emergency Committee have launched an appeal that has raised millions. This is an organisation which brings a group of charities together. In this case Oxfam, Save the Children, Tearfund and Islamic Relief amongst many others.dec.org.uk/appeals/To help specific groups directly:The White Helmets are volunteers who have been operating in Syria for many years. They help evacuate people from dangerous areas and offer medical help.https://www.whitehelmets.org/en/AKUT Search and Rescue Association. They are a non-governmental organisation offering emergency and disaster relief to people caught up in natural disasters in Turkey.https://www.akut.org.tr/en/donationAHBAP an independent civilian organisation who offer disaster relief to communities in need across Turkey. This is the organisation that the kind listener who prompted me to make this appeal recommends.https://ahbap.org/disasters-turkeyInternational Red Crosshttps://www.icrc.org/en/donate/syria-emergency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A personal appeal from a listener who has family in Antakya. This is an appeal for you to donate to one of the various charities who are rushing to the scene at this moment to help the survivors. You have a number of options. You may have campaigns being run in your country by reputable organisations. So here in the UK the Disaster Emergency Committee have launched an appeal that has raised millions. This is an organisation which brings a group of charities together. In this case Oxfam, Save the Children, Tearfund and Islamic Relief amongst many others.dec.org.uk/appeals/To help specific groups directly:The White Helmets are volunteers who have been operating in Syria for many years. They help evacuate people from dangerous areas and offer medical help.https://www.whitehelmets.org/en/AKUT Search and Rescue Association. They are a non-governmental organisation offering emergency and disaster relief to people caught up in natural disasters in Turkey.https://www.akut.org.tr/en/donationAHBAP an independent civilian organisation who offer disaster relief to communities in need across Turkey. This is the organisation that the kind listener who prompted me to make this appeal recommends.https://ahbap.org/disasters-turkeyInternational Red Crosshttps://www.icrc.org/en/donate/syria-emergency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

dec.org.uk/appeals/To help specific groups directly:The White Helmets are volunteers who have been operating in Syria for many years. They help evacuate people from dangerous areas and offer medical help.https://www.whitehelmets.org/en/ AKUT Search and Rescue Association. They are a non-governmental organisation offering emergency and disaster relief to people caught up in natural disasters in Turkey.https://www.akut.org.tr/en/donation AHBAP an independent civilian organisation who offer disaster relief to communities in need across Turkey. This is the organisation that the kind listener who prompted me to make this appeal recommends.https://ahbap.org/disasters-turkeyInternational Red Crosshttps://www.icrc.org/en/donate/syria-emergencyTurkish Red Crescenthttps://www.kizilay.org.tr/Bagis/BagisYap/404/pazarcik-depremi-bagisi Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss what happened once the Latins started looting. How were the Byzantines treated? What was taken and what has survived? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Latins assault the city and Alexios Angelos Komnenos flees. Alexios Angelos becomes Emperor and empties the treasury into the Crusaders' hands. But when he runs out of money the two sides face an inevitable confrontation.Period: 1203-4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pope Innocent calls for a new Crusade to retake Jerusalem. A group of French Knights decide to form an expedition to Egypt and make a deal with Venice to transport them. But when they can't pay the bill the mission goes awry and ends up at Constantinople.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexios Angelos faces down one internal rebellion after another as the Roman Empire continues to contract. The biggest threat to his throne comes from disgruntled aristocrats and the people of Constantinople.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isaac Angelos does his best to secure his position and confront the Bulgarians. But he is overthrown by his brother at the head of a coalition of aristocratic families. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As soon as news reached the West that Jerusalem had fallen a new Crusade was called. The German, French and English Kings all led armies East but only Frederick Barbarossa went by land. He led a large army across the Balkans towards Constantinople and Isaac Angelos had to decided whether to treat him as friend or foe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I speak to author Ben Duval, author of the book: "Saladin the Strategist: How the Crusaders Lost the Holy Land."We go through Saladin's career starting with how he captured Egypt. Then how he built the coalition which defeated the Crusaders. Finally we watch on as he traps them at Hattin and then sweeps across the Kingdom of Jerusalem.Buy the book here, follow Ben on twitter @byzantinemporia and find out more about his work here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isaac Angelos begins his reign by defeating the Normans and making as many alliances as he can to secure his position. Unfortunately he rejects an offer from two Vlach Chieftains Peter and Asen. They turn on the Romans and found the Second Bulgarian Empire north of the Haemus Mountains. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andronikos continues to terrorise his relatives. Many leave Byzantium seeking help from foreign courts. One arrives in Sicily and calls on the Normans to help him. They launch an invasion and sack the city of Thessalonica. Period: 1184-85 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Manuel Komnenos died he left an 11 year old son as his heir. The Regency Council set up to protect him fails. Manuel's cousin Andronikos seizes the throne instead and begins a reign of terror.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about why the Romans didn't have more success in fighting the Turks. Was there a better way to fight the nomads? Or was it not really about tactics but strategy?Period: 1070-1180 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look around the Roman provinces in Anatolia to review their defensive situation and the lifestyle of its people. We also briefly talk about Turkic people who lived in Byzantium. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look around the parts of Anatolia which were controlled by Turkic peoples between 1080 and 1180 AD. We don’t have a huge amount of written sources to draw on but hopefully there’s enough information available to give you a better picture of what’s been happening there. We also discuss the two different groups of Turkic peoples in Anatolia - the settled and the nomads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On my last update I told you that because of my forthcoming fatherhood – I would be switching to a season by season format from now on. Where there are periods of silence followed by a run of episodes altogether. That is still the case. But I am making an exception for 3 episodes which I’m going to release now.This triptych of episodes covers life in Anatolia during the Komnenian century. What was life like for Romans living under Turkic rule? What was life like in Imperial territory and an analysis of the military situation.These episodes are really more connected to the reign of Manuel than they are to the narrative which follows. So I thought I’d release these now while the Komnenian century is still fresh in your memory. Then the feed will go quiet for a while till the narrative returns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, as you may remember our last episode was an interview with author Gordon Doherty. Gordon generously offered to give away a copy of his book – Strategos: Born in the Borderlands to one of you. We set a competition and a winner has been chosen. I will leave it to Gordon to tell you about the best entries he read and to announce the winner. I will just remind you all to check out https://www.gordondoherty.co.uk/ to learn more about his work.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I have big news. A History of Byzantium baby is on the way. The purple room in the Palace is being prepared for the Autumn and I can assure you that the names Justinian and Theodora will not be under consideration. Of course I’m very excited. But it means I think we need to change the way the podcast is scheduled. I plan on being as involved as possible during the first few months of my baby’s life. And so it won’t be possible to keep a normal podcast routine. So what we’re going to do is switch to a sort of TV schedule. Where there is silence for a few months and then I will release a complete series of episodes. So that when the podcast is on air, so to speak, you know that it will be out every week without fail and that whatever period of narrative we’re in will reach a natural conclusion. This will include bonus episodes for those who subscribe over at Patreon.I feel more comfortable switching to this new schedule thanks to Patreon. It means that those of you who kindly support the show can manage your subscriptions however you see fit. And if you’re still in any doubt about how Patreon works - you can pick up a subscription or cancel one any time you like. There is no contract or commitment. And when you resubscribe you get your benefits back instantly. We’re going to switch to this new schedule immediately. So there will now be a period of silence before a run of episodes that will take us from the death of Manuel through to the sack of Constantinople in 1204.  I won’t be announcing any dates for this new schedule. The periods of silence will take as long as they take and then there will be loads of episodes in a row to enjoy. It will be an adjustment for all of us but I think it’s for the best. I have pushed myself hard in the past to try and produce the podcast weekly and to leave as few gaps as possible and it can cause a lot of stress. History podcasting just does take a long time. Some topics take weeks to research. And the more I read the better the show gets. I’m hoping this new schedule will make life easier for you and for me. Thank you for your patience and for your support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk to historical fiction author Gordon Doherty about his Byzantine book series 'Strategos.' We talk about inspiration and research but also what advice he'd give to aspiring writers.We also give you the chance to win a copy of the first book in the Strategos trilogy.Find out more about Gordon and his other book series (including more Roman era stories) at his website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While I'm away on the third 'History of Byzantium' tour I thought it was time to talk to the man behind them - Şerif Yenen. Şerif has been a tour guide in Istanbul for decades and has published many excellent books on the subject. He has also gone online to share his love for travel through podcasts and Youtube videos. I talk to Serif about his career and ask him listener questions about what to do and see in Turkey.Contact me if you'd like to be on the mailing list for future 'History of Byzantium' tours.Check out Şerif's Youtube channel and his podcast 'Turkish Odyssey.' Or visit his website to find out more about his books, lectures and tours around Turkey.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 2022 Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer listener questions about Manuel's reign.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel deals with the aftermath of the Battle of Myriokephalon. He is left out of an Italian peace conference and must negotiate a peace of his own in Anatolia. He continues his efforts to position Byzantium as a friend of the Latins. And we look at his church and financial policies.Period: 1176-80 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel launches a Crusade against the Turks of Iconium.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I have teamed up with Nitin Sil of the Flash Point History Youtube Channel. We are turning the podcast into a Youtube series with brilliant maps, images and animations accompanying my words. Check out our first video now https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2pQjfOebdI&t=2241s charting the rise of Justinian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While his armies were fighting in the Balkans Manuel's diplomats and fleets were busy elsewhere. Komnenos poured money into Italy to try and gain influence there. He considered alliances with the Germans, the Pope and the Normans but ultimately lost them all. He made war on Venice and tried to capture an Egyptian port.Period: 1161-73 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

History of Byzantium Tour - April 23 to May 2, 2022. The tour will visit Istanbul, Cappadocia and Ephesus. If you'd like to come or if you'd like to hear about future tours please email [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel spends the 1160s at war with Hungary. During these campaigns the Emperor adopts the Hungarian King's brother making him his heir. This enables the Romans to seize Sirmium and parts of Dalmatia. The Hungarian elites won't stand for it and try to throw the Romans out.Period: 1161-72 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look around Constantinople in Manuel's day. We discuss his use of the two urban palaces and the growth of the Italian population along the Golden Horn.Period: 1143-61 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Alexios Komnenos came to power his family decided to marry their way out of the civil wars which threatened the state. By Manuel's day this meant that a new aristocracy had grown up who dominated the organs of the Byzantine state. We discuss this development and how Manuel managed his family. As well as those who resented this innovation.Period: 1143-61 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we talk to historian Katherine Pangonis about her book 'Queens of Jerusalem.' Not only do we talk about the fascinating lives of the women of Outremer but we also pick up Andronikos' story as he manages to scandalise all of Christendom.Find out more about Katherine at her websiteTo listen to the book for free why not use Audible's 30-day trial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We pause the narrative briefly to learn more about Manuel's world. Today we talk about the Emperor's personality and relatives. Including his cousin, friend and rival Andronikos. Period: 1143-61 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Italy and the Balkans at peace Manuel turns his attention to Anatolia. He marches to Antioch to punish those who'd wronged him. He then campaigns against the Turks with surprisingly positive results.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manuel's Italian campaign begins brightly but ends in failure. Meanwhile his cousin Andronikos tries to kill him and more bad news arrives from Antioch.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Normans raid the cities of Greece during the passage of the Second Crusade. Manuel sees this as such a worrying development that he makes the decision to prioritise the recovery of Apulia over Antioch. This sets off a series of conflicts in the Balkans and a series of missed opportunities in Syria. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We follow the Emperor Conrad and King Louis as they both attempt to cross Anatolia. Period: 1147-1148 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A 'Second' Crusade is called in response to the fall of Edessa in 1144. The French and German monarchs sign up leaving the Byzantines with multiple headaches to deal with. Period: 1144-1147 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John II Komnenos' youngest son Manuel takes charge of the Empire. After securing the capital and punishing Raymond of Antioch the new Emperor goes on campaign against the Turks. After chasing the Sultan of Iconium to his capital Manuel realises that fighting on the plateau is no easy business. Meanwhile the Crusader city of Edessa falls and the Byzantines don't appreciate the significance of this event.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robin discusses 'Byzantium and Italy' with Marco Capelli. Marco is the brilliant host of Storia d'Italia - a podcast telling the story of the History of Italy - in Italian. This interview is in English. Please do tell any Italian speakers you know about Storia d'Italia (italiastoria.com). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Family Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we talk to the man whose research has guided our last few podcasts Dr Maximilian Lau.Dr Lau is Adjunct Professor of Economic History at Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo, and also a Research Associate in History at St Benet’s Hall, University of Oxford. He has been studying 12th century Byzantine history for many years now and the fruits of that labour can be found in his forthcoming book “Rebuilding New Rome. The Foreign Policy of John II Komnenos.”The book is written and will be out next year and Dr Lau very generously shared it with me in advance. It’s been incredibly helpful in part because of its quality but also because it follows a format similar to our narrative episodes. It is a chronological account of John’s military and political activity with a discussion of the sources as each incident unfolds. As Dr Lau explains in the interview – John’s reign often gets short shrift in popular Byzantine books because our Roman sources cover him fairly briefly. But there are plenty of other sources to work with and Dr Lau has synthesised them to create a new history of John's reign.Period: 1118-1143 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last time we watched as John Komnenos attempted to untangle the Gordian knot which Anatolia had become. After campaigning against the Danishmends – John moved on to Cilicia and Antioch. The Emperor attempted to enforce his rights without angering the Latins. A trick which he failed to pull off. Today John will be forced to go through the whole process all over again. But when he reaches the gates of Antioch this time he won’t take no for an answer.Period: 1138-1143 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John II Komnenos is finally free to campaign in Anatolia. If he can keep the Turks quiet then he can make it to Antioch where his real goal lies. But once there will he risk outraging Latin opinion by assaulting the city or will he negotiate a deal to bring the city back into the Empire?Period: 1127-1138 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John II Komnenos takes charge of the Empire and campaigns immediately in Anatolia. But he is soon beset by the complications of the new position Byzantium finds itself in. Serbians, Steppe tribes, Hungarians and Venetians all demand his attention. Enemies and allies are crowding the chess board and John must make each move very carefully. Period: 1118-1127If you want to send in feedback to the podcast:- Either comment at https://thehistoryofbyzantium.com/- Or on the facebook page.- Leave a review on Itunes.- Follow me on Twitter or Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I have now finished all of the videos of Istanbul. So do subscribe to the History of Byzantium Youtube channel if you’d like to see them. The first few will go up next week.  I have also completed our next Byzantine Story. It will be available in the next hour. It’s about a provincial magnate named Kekaumenos whose life gives us the invaluable perspective of a Roman outsider. Someone who viewed the Emperor and his bureaucracy with some suspicion.  For anyone interested in daily life in other parts of the Empire this is a must listen. It will be available on the bonus episodes feed at Patreon and to anyone who is still subscribed at thehistoryofbyzantium.com. If your subscription ran out in the last year email me and I’ll add it to your feed for free.  You can also buy the episode on its own for $7 but remember from October the only place to get any bonus episodes will be Patreon. Go to patreon.com/historyofbyzantium to find out more. The feeds at Patreon are also advert-free.   You’ll be pleased to hear that I am now going back to the narrative. I’ll be back soon with the reign of John Komnenos, son of Alexios. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone,  I don’t normally talk about personal things on the podcast. But my father has been diagnosed with cancer. It’s serious and it’s all happened very quickly. I am still working away on the next Byzantine Story but further disruption to the schedule is inevitable. Thanks for your understanding.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As you may know I have already produced three episodes about Women in the Roman World which are available for you on the Ad-Free Bonus Feed at Patreon.I now present three more episodes about Women in the Byzantine World. And these episodes are very much a continuation of that series. In part one we talk about how the arrival of Christianity affected Roman women. We also hear a couple of Saints' Lives. These tales give us a rare glimpse of how women appeared in popular culture.This first episode is free but parts 2 and 3 are only available on the Ad-Free Bonus Feed at Patreon. The Incidental Music used is “Introspection” from Purple-Planet.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone, I am back with three bonus episodes for you about Women in the Byzantine World. These episodes should be available within an hour or so of this update.  Since women get much less attention than they deserve in our narrative I’ll put the first of these episodes out for free for everyone to enjoy. Parts 2 and 3 though are only available on the Ad-Free Bonus Feed at Patreon or at thehistoryofbyzantium.com.  Since I’m very late with these bonus episodes they will be available to anyone whose subscription at the website ran out in the last year. So if you had a subscription which ran out any time from July 2020 and you haven’t renewed or switched to Patreon just email me and I’ll add the episodes to your account manually. That email is [email protected]. These 3 episodes are a continuation of another 3 parter I recorded a couple of years ago called Women in the Roman World. If you like what you hear in part 1 of the new series but want to hear more about women’s lives in the Greco-Roman world then do check out those episodes. Either at Patreon or at thehistoryofbyzantium.com. But just to remind you episodes will no longer be available from the website from October.  I am now moving on to work on another Byzantine Story and then it will be back to the narrative.  Take care and thanks for listening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Update on the schedule of the podcast, May 2021  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our sixteenth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at the relationship between Byzantium and the Rus and later Russia in conversation with Professor Sergey Ivanov.Professor Ivanov is a Russian scholar who has been studying Byzantium for many decades. He currently works in the Institute of Oriental and Ancient Studies at the National Research University “Higher School of Economics” in Moscow. He has written several books about Byzantium as well as contributing hundreds of articles to the field. His areas of study include Byzantine religious missions, the cultural influence of Byzantium on the Rus', Holy Fools and Constantinople itself. He has also taken part in public lectures and debates on the legacy of Byzantium in modern Russia.To see his full list of publications please click here . His books ‘Holy Fools in Byzantium and Beyond’ and ‘Pearls before Swine: Missionary Work in Byzantium’ have been translated into English. As have a number of articles and other book chapters. To read a public lecture which Professor Ivanov gave in 2009 about “The Second Rome as Seen by the Third: Russian Debates on the “Byzantine Legacy” please click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

High Speed History have Byzantine-themed merchandise available!The good people over at Highspeedhistory.com have produced a range of delightful items featuring our beloved Byzantium. We’re talking t-shirts, hoodies, bags, clocks, towels and stickers amongst many other items.I’m very pleased to say that some of your ideas have made their way into the collection. I asked for your input on social media and you came up with great ideas. If you want to celebrate your love of Justinian or Belisarius then an Empire Strikes Back t-shirt could be yours. Or if you’ve been dying to show your support for the Green faction or the Blues but they won’t let you in the Hippodrome anymore then fear not because a Green or Blue iphone case or mouse mat or t-shirt could be yours. Or what about the most adorable item of all – a baby grow with porphyrogennitos on it. Come on, how could you resist?Please go to www.highspeedhistory.com/byzantium to check out the full range. If you decide to buy something then use the code ‘byzantium’ at checkout to get a pound or dollar off each item you purchase. And you’ll be helping out the podcast as I will get a little something for sending you there. Anyone can buy these items – they ship worldwide. And this discount also applies to any items you purchase from the Greek or Roman sections of the website. Yes High Speed History has merch from a variety of historical eras check them all out at highspeedhistory.com.I also did a written interview for the site to lure in those of you who find me weirdly interesting. So if you want to know my favourite film or what I’d put on a billboard in a busy city then check out the interview here.Happy browsing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When I announced I would be taking a break back in the Autumn I received an email from listener Brian Sherry offering to produce an episode of the show for me. He told me about the metal band Judicator recording an entire album about Belisarius. And he very kindly offered to interview them on my behalf.I said yes and Brian got lead singer and writer John Yelland on the phone and they talked about turning the life story of Justinian’s most trusted General into a full metal album.Today's episode is an edited version of that interview. They talk through the concept and the choice of moments in Belisarius’ life to capture in song. And they play a few snippets of music to give you an idea of what the album sounds like.If you’d like more then the full 2 hour interview is available on Judicator’s Youtube channel. And of course if you’d like to buy the album - Let There Be Nothing – go to judicatormetal.bandcamp.com or check it out on Amazon, Apple Music, Spotify or wherever you get your music.I am still working on the bonus content I owe many of you. I will be back at some point in Spring with the narrative. For now enjoy the interview. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our final episode on Alexios' reign returns us to our first. Back in episode 197 we interviewed Professor Leonora Neville about Anna Komnene. That interview set us up to cover Alexios' reign and the First Crusade with Anna as our primary source. But the last question I asked that day was about the succession from Alexios to John and Anna's supposed coup attempt. Here we finally hear Professor Neville's argument that Anna did no such thing. We also briefly look at our main historian for our next period of narrative - Niketas Choniates.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at your questions about Alexios and the Crusades. Listeners wanted an update on the state of Byzantium's army, economy and administration. How much credit or blame should Alexios get for the events of his reign? What about his relationship with his family? Were the Latins tougher fighters than the Byzantines? And several more.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three new episodes are coming your way in the next three weeks. New narrative episodes will come at some point in the Spring. I am still busy working on the Istanbul videos and Byzantine Stories. Also we have a new Patreon https://www.patreon.com/historyofbyzantium. Bonus episodes will no longer be available at thehistoryofbyzantium.com from October 2021. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello everyone,This is a short update about the podcast and the likely schedule for the next few months. The main takeaways are:- The narrative will resume around Spring 2021- In the meantime I will be producing bonus episodes and videos from Istanbul. As well as doing work for my Dad and taking a little time out for my mental health.- At least two more free episodes about Alexios will be coming soon. Including a Q&A about his reign and the Crusades so do send your questions in. You can comment on the thread below.Thanks for your support and understanding,Robin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexios tries to forge a coalition against Antioch but has to abandon his plans when Anatolia comes calling again. The Emperor leaves this world frustrated by his failure to outmanoeuvre the Normans but his record in office is impressive nonetheless.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bohemond heads back to Western Europe to recruit a new army. He leads them back to the Balkans to capture Dyrrhachium but Alexios is waiting for him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More armed pilgrims arrive at Constantinople in the wake of the fall of Jerusalem. Alexios advises them to avoid the Turks of Anatolia but they ignore him. Meanwhile Alexios' attempts to put pressure on Antioch are thwarted by Bohemond's nephew Tancred. Finally we return to Constantinople to check in with the Komnenian regime and watch a man get burnt to death. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the end of the First Crusade and this episode is for sale. Either at the website or at https://www.patreon.com/thehistoryofbyzantium Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Crusaders set up a siege of Antioch. The vast size of the city makes it impossible to fully encircle. What follows is a battle of attrition as the Crusaders wait for the Turkic garrison to make a mistake and the garrison await reinforcements. Meanwhile Alexios makes his way to the centre of the Anatolian plateau to consolidate the return of Byzantine power. He also awaits news from Antioch.Time Stamps - each section is broken up by our drum sound effect00.00-03.05 Introduction03.06-08.47 Why did the Crusaders have to capture Antioch?08.48-14.22 Baldwin at Edessa14.23-17.14 The political fragmentation of Syria17.15-27.35 The geography of Antioch27.36-33.52 Early stages of the siege33.53-46.35 Winter stalemate. Suffering and desertions. Bohemond and Robert of Flanders drive off forces from Damascus46.36-54.42 Victory over the forces of Aleppo54.43-62.18 More fully surrounding the city62.19-77.09 Antioch falls77.10-84.24 The Crusaders besieged. Kerbogah attacks from the Citadel84.25-87.46 Desperation and talk of surrender87.47-92.03 Alexios goes home92.04-100.19 The final battle100.19-107.00 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Byzantines recover the West Coast of Anatolia while the Crusaders cross the plateau. As they travel the Westerners begin dropping like flies and come to hate the land they've come to liberate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Crusaders march out from Nicaea on their way to Antioch. First stop is at Dorylaeum on the Anatolian plateau. But the forces of Kilij Arslan are lying in wait. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is your final reminder about the Intelligent Speech Conference taking place this Saturday 27th June. I'll be taking part in two sessions and if you want to be there go to https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/ to get tickets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexios directs the Crusaders to Nicaea where they set up a siege. Behind the scenes though the Emperor was busy negotiating with the city's garrison. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Basil II may have been gay! Just one of the 'Hidden Stories' I'll be talking about at the Intelligent Speech Conference in a week's time. Tickets are still available for $10 until the 19th June. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm a part of two sessions at the Intelligent Speech Conference on June 27th. Please consider buying your ticket today before prices go up! https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The senior nobles of the First Crusade make the journey to Constantinople. There Alexios asks them to swear an oath of allegiance to him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our narrative resumes as the so-called People's Crusade crosses the Danube and heads for Constantinople. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I will be taking part in the Intelligent Speech Conference on June 27th. I will be part of a panel talking about how medieval history is depicted in popular culture. And giving a talk about the hidden voices of Byzantium. Find out more at intelligentspeechconference.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How many people went on Crusade? Who were they and who was in charge of them? Why did they go? What does all this mean for Byzantium? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sharyn Eastaugh from the History of the Crusades podcast explores why people responded to Urban's call. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We follow Urban as he crosses into France and spends over a year on tour. We talk about the steps he took to prepare for the announcement of the Crusades. Then we break down what we believe he said and why he said it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We briefly talk about events in Jerusalem and the wider Levant on the eve of the First Crusade. Had anything happened there that could have sparked the Crusades? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Professor Peter Frankopan about his book 'The First Crusade: The Call from the East.' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about Pope Urban's shaky political position on the eve of the Crusade. As well as discussing the wider Papal reform movement and how military violence came to be a part of their plans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss what Alexios really wanted from the West. Was he surprised by the Crusading army that formed or had he been lobbying for something similar? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A quick introduction to the Crusading topic and a discussion of how religious interpretations of historical events can be particularly distorting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at events in Constantinople during Alexios' first fifteen years in power. Including reforms to the court, the coinage and social care. We conclude by talking about Alexios' personality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexios campaigns in Europe for a decade dealing with Pechenegs, Cumans and Serbs. But his supporters begin to question his priorities as Anatolia sinks into the mire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Alexios constantly at war in Europe during the 1080s he could only deal with Anatolia through diplomacy. He searched in vain for allies who could stabilise the situation but by 1095 realised he would have to turn West for the manpower needed to campaign in person. For the Romans who actually lived in Anatolia the situation had a Wild West vibe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexios marches back out to fight the Normans only to be beaten again and again. Finally he comes up with a strategy to throw them out of the Balkans but must embrace the Venetians ever closer as a result. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our 200th show I pay tribute to the scholar who has had the most influence on this podcast - Professor Mark Whittow. Sadly Professor Whittow died in 2017 and he is a huge loss to academia and Byzantine Studies in particular. I take you through three articles he wrote about political power in Byzantium to give you a taste of the kind of insights that have shaped the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robert Guiscard, the Norman leader in Southern Italy, invades the Empire. He surrounds the key port city of Dyrrachium and Alexios gathers an army to stop him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alexios Komnenos leads a revolt and quickly captures the throne from Nicephorus Botaneiates. But to truly understand this coup we need to explore the dynastic dual of Doukas and Komnenos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our best primary source for Alexios Komnenos reign is The Alexiad written by his daughter Anna Komnene. I talk to Professor Leonora Neville about Anna's life and writing and how she overcame the obstacles facing a woman trying to write history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 new episodes based on the original House of War episode are now available for purchase. Listen to this update for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the revival of intellectual and literary culture over the past century. We focus particularly on the work of Michael Psellos and Symeon the New Theologian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An update on the podcast, the Kickstarter projects and a couple of recommendations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our fifteenth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at some aspects of the Hagia Sophia and the coronation ceremony of Emperors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am attending the Sound Education Conference next month and sharing the stage with Mike Duncan! It will be a huge honour for me to meet and chat to the man who inspired 'The History of Byzantium.' And you can be there too. I've recorded a short explanation for the show but all the details can be found at soundeducation.fm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robin interviewed on the Roads to Liberty Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live Facebook recording today Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2020 Istanbul, Cappadocia and Ephesus Tour information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We follow the flailing administration of Michael VII as it slowly collapses under the immense weight of events. Then we watch as the remaining Roman Generals line up one after another as each attempts to burn the Empire down in order to become King of the Ashes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turkic nomads begin to raid Anatolia. The Imperial response is hampered by the defection of their Norman mercenaries. Under their commander Roussel de Bailleul they begin operating independently leading the government to squander precious resources in bringing them down. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Doukas' widow Eudocia marries Romanos Diogenes to empower a General who can stop the Turkic raids. Diogenes does his best but ends up meeting the Sultan, Alp Arslan, in battle on the fields outside the city of Manzikert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine X Doukas spends his reign doing little to help the eastern front. We explore the possible reasons for this inactivity. We also cover Doukas' death and the oath he made his wife swear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isaac Komnenos comes to power urgently trying to restore the budget. But when he dies two years later his successor Constantine X Doukas reverses his economising. As he cuts from the military budget instead Turkic raiders sack the Armenian city of Ani. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theodora resumes control of the Empire but dies a year later. Her eunuchs choose Michael Bringas to replace her but he is not approved of by the Empire's military establishment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Professor Barry Strauss about his new book '10 Caesars' and his podcast 'Antiquitas.' I quiz him about the two Emperors with most relevance to Byzantium: Diocletian and Constantine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our fourteenth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at the city of Rome and its development from the height of Antonine Rome to the post Justinian world of Gregory the Great. You will be in the capable hands of Steve Guerra from the History of the Papacy Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our thirteenth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at the legacy of Byzantium and why it seems so forgotten today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Constantine IX leaves the stage we see him desperately searching for ways to raise tax revenue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The rapacious behaviour of the Normans in Italy brings together an alliance against them. The Byzantines and the Papacy try to get on the same page but discover that they may never be able to. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the Pecheneg Wars the Roman treasury was empty. We look at Constantine Monomachos' response to this and other Imperial expenses which may have exacerbated the situation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first large Seljuk raids on the Empire lead to a series of events which unravel Byzantium's Western defences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A quick interview with me about the History of History Podcasting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine Monomachos faces yet more challenges in the early years of his reign. We cover the annexation of Ani, the Pechenegs crossing the Danube and the revolt of Leo Tornikios. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zoe chooses Constantine Monomachos to be her new husband and Emperor. We discuss his character and relationship with our historian Michael Psellos. Then move on to two major challenges which greeted his arrival on the throne. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our twelfth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at the life of Harald Hardrada in conversation with Noah Tetzner from the History of Vikings Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you'd like to hear about the dramatic fall of Michael V then episode 183 is now available to buy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We cover the Bulgarian uprising of 1040 and the events elsewhere in the Balkans which led up to it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael IV marries Zoe and becomes Emperor. Despite ill health he rules well with his brother John the Orphanotrophos. Their invasion of Sicily goes well initially but soon falls apart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Romanos III is faced with the same problems which troubled his predecessor. He decides that a campaign against Aleppo will solve some of his problems. Meanwhile Zoe is left alone and frustrated in the Palace. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to the narrative with a short introduction and the short reign of Basil's brother Constantine VIII. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our eleventh Kickstarter backers reward episode explores Byzantium's Jewish communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listener questions on Varangians, provincial administration, diplomacy, family mottos and the ever popular top 5 best and worst Emperors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listener questions on houses, slavery, citizenship, vacations and common sayings amongst others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Peter Adamson from the History of Philosophy Without any Gaps podcast. We talk primarily about Michael Psellos and his role in the intellectual history of Byzantium. But we also talk about Byzantine philosophy in general. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Turks are coming to the borders of Armenia and we examine why. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our tenth Kickstarter backers reward episode answers a series of questions about the growing population and economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the economic recovery of the Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our ninth Kickstarter backers reward episode discusses the sweep of history during our period and what lies under the maps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was a guest on the Dead Ideas podcast to discuss the Varangian Guard. We talk about their role in the palace and the field armies and contrast their role to Eunuchs in Byzantium. Do check out Dead Ideas for episodes covering Titoism, Serfdom, Cuneiform, Vikings and many other fun topics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the past century of success for the Roman military and answer some listener questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our eighth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about the use of Greek Fire on land. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We head to the Eastern frontier to see what Byzantium's expansion into Armenia meant for the Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2019 History of Byzantium tour is here. Book your place now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our seventh Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about Georgia, the Orthodox nations around the Black Sea and Ravenna. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We head to the Eastern frontier to see what Byzantium's expansion into Armenia meant for the Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our sixth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about the institutions which influenced Byzantine life and the legal punishments for everyday crimes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Having covered the famous monuments thoroughly we take a look around the rest of Constantinople. We survey changes in the population, harbours, architecture and palace amongst other things. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Byzantine Stories Episode 7: Women in the Roman World is now available Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our fifth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about what makes a good Emperor and more about feeling attached to the Romans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our fourth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about Constantinople and some personal ones for me. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our third Kickstarter backers reward episode features a lot of chat about my trip to Istanbul. I talk about the experience of visiting for the first time and answer listener questions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our second Kickstarter backers reward episode featuring some book recommendations and me describing a day in the life of a podcaster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What would a foreign visitor to Constantinople expect to see and hear? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello from Istanbul Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We survey the main structures and services of Constantinople to see what has changed since 518 AD (episode 10 of the show) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An explanation and some credits from Episode 166 - To The City. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You visit Constantinople, guided by a stranger. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our first Kickstarter backers reward episode showcasing the Byzantine board and role playing games available. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For those who pledged £65 on the Kickstarter I need to hear from you. Get in touch with me about having your voice on the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Final Kickstarter Reminder Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the reasons why the Bulgarians never became Romans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The maps commonly used in books and the internet give a misleading impression of the Byzantine occupation of Bulgaria. We tour the Balkans and discuss the reality on the ground. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am doing an AMA. That's an Ask Me Anything for a website called WhatPods. I will be answering questions on the 21st March at 4.30pm US eastern standard time. Post your questions now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A replay of episode 89 "The House of War" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We trace the interconnected developments of the Magyars, Pechenegs and Rus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My Istanbul Kickstarter Campaign launches today. Please consider supporting it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We move on to Venice and Normandy to discuss the development of two peoples who will play a key role in the future of Byzantium. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about developments in the Frankish realm as they relate to Byzantium across the past century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about the big picture status of Italy during the 10th century and why it mattered to Byzantium. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Byzantine Stories episode six announcement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss Byzantine funeral practices and the burial places of Emperors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer some listener questions about Basil II and Byzantine first names. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Update on schedule and Istanbul Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We cover Basil's last few years as he deals with the Fatimids, the Georgians and his own rebellious soldiers. We then wrap up his reign and bring our century to a close. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss campaigning in the Balkans, the end of the Bulgarian war and the legend of the Bulgar Slayer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Basil continues his campaigns against the Fatimids and the Bulgarians. We also discuss the turning of the year 1000. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the origins of the revived Bulgarian Empire and follow Basil as he campaigns against them and the Fatimids in the East.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Finally Basil II stands alone as master of the Roman world. Let's get to know him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Civil war resumes as both Bardas Sclerus and Bardas Phokas rebel against Basil. An epic showdown follows which drags the Bulgarians, the Rus, Varangians, Arabs, Armenians and Georgians into the contest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The civil war continues with Bardas Sclerus and Bardas Phokas locking horns. Although the Imperial side emerge victorious, the price is years of tension with their new Domestic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your feedback needed on the idea of me travelling to Istanbul to record material for the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The narrative resumes with Basil Lekapenos elevating his great-nephew Basil II to the throne. However Bardas Sclerus immediately rebels and declares himself Emperor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The full interview with Professor Kaldellis about his book "Streams of Gold, Rivers of Blood." The book is a narrative history from the time when Nicephorus Phokas took charge of the military through till the First Crusade. In our conversation we talk about sources, Basil IIs reign, the Magnates and the struggles of the 11th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to our interview with Professor Kaldellis to discuss Basil II's reign. We talk about our sources, about his decision never to marry and his relationship with the landed magnates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at a series of questions about what's been happening in Bulgaria since the peace was signed in 927. Why were the Rus able to defeat the Bulgarians so quickly? What did the Roman occupation look like? And more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did the Romans dream of reconquering their eastern provinces? Or were their border acquisitions enough? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the eastern conquests and how valuable they really were. As well as the deployment and organisation of the military in the borderlands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin our mini end-of-the-century series by talking about our sources. Huge thanks to Professor Anthony Kaldellis for talking to me about his new book "Streams of Gold, Rivers of Blood." It's a narrative history covering the period from when Nicephorus Phokas took over the military until the First Crusade. This is only part of our interview focusing on the task of sifting sources to create a more realistic narrative. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 1 is an overview of the history of Greek medicine. How it developed and what kind of treatments were on offer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John returns home triumphant but must deal with the Fatimid attacks in the east. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please help the show by filling out our listener survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Tzimiskes faces down the Phokas rebellion and then marches for Bulgaria to take on the Rus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Tzimiskes pacifies his domestic and foreign enemies as he consolidates his rule. However the Rus leader Sviatoslav makes the decision to move his capital to the Danube forcing the Romans to respond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicephorus Phokas is murdered by his nephew John Tzimiskes. We discuss the plot, the aftermath and the personalities of both men. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We cover Nicephorus' foreign policy issues during his final two years in office. Armenian, Bulgarian and Italian concerns then go on hold for one last march through Syria. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving to Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicephorus stays at home to administer his realm and manages to alienate every strata of society.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicephorus leads the armies in person against Tarsus and Mopsuestia, bringing Cilicia and Cyprus back into the Empire.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss Nicephorus' life and career and what his rise meant for Romania.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We catch up on what Romanus II and Sayf were up to during the Cretan expedition. Then we move forward with Nicephorus Phokas as he sacks Aleppo.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Nicephorus Phokas in charge of the military the Romans win a string of victories against Sayf al-Dawlah. Constantine VII decides to attack Crete again but dies before the expedition sets off.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Eric McGeer about his book "Sowing the Dragon's Teeth" which charts the changes in the Roman army as it moved to an offensive deployment in the 10th century.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

948-954. We return to the frontier where the Phokas family inflict a series of sharp defeats on Sayf al-Dawla. Sayf starts again by restoring his border fortresses and driving off Roman attacks. When Constantine Phokas is captured alive the war begins to escalate.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine VII seeks peace in the east but Sayf al-Dawla is not interested. The Emperor presses on with the attempted pacification of Crete.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Professor John Haldon about his book "The Empire That Would Not Die: The Paradox of Eastern Roman Survival, 640-740." In particular we discuss environmental research which helps us understand important changes in Anatolia. I think you'll be fascinated by what it can show us.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 129 is available Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Rus raid delays John Kourkouas from leading a raid into Syria. When he does though he captures the sacred Mandylion and brings it back to the capital. Soon afterwards though he and Romanus are ousted from power. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Kourkouas captures Melitene, providing the Empire with its first eastern conquest in centuries. The Islamic world is alarmed at this news and the Hamdanid family begin to provide resistance. However their preoccupation with Baghdad means they may have already conceded the mountains to the Romans.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

927-8 was a terrible winter. The suffering of the common people led many to sell their farms to their wealthy neighbours. Romanus legislated quickly to put a stop to it. Meanwhile John Kourkouas led the army into Armenia with Melitene in his sights.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back in the tent with Symeon and Nicholas we learn that a title was granted that day. Symeon wanted to be hailed as Emperor. Wrangling over this title would lead to another decade of war before the two sides could come together.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new Emperor Alexander dies after only a year on the throne. The next six years see an interregnum as the Patriarch, Empress and leading Generals vie to become the guardian to young Constantine VII.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We review the players in the impending struggle over the throne. And answer some more listener questions on the way.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Byzantine Stories Episode Four Announcement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer more of your questions including sports, Iconoclasm, prices, symbols, literature and more.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aside from the rise of the landed magnates there have been some other important changes in the Roman military in the past century. We cover the Themes, recruitment, payment, skirmishing and all the rest.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The fruits of the recovery were unevenly distributed. The wealthy landowners of the plateau were building huge estates and developing family histories to go with them.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore arguments for and against the idea that commerce was a huge source of revenue for Byzantium.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Romans are finally recovering from three centuries of struggle. One of the lesser-discussed reasons for this was the payments made to the elites for their loyalty.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Its time for some of your questions. We cover queries about the Bulgars, Slavs, Greece, Coins and modern Romania.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We place the Khazars, Magyars, Pechenegs and Rus on the map and explore their relationships with Constantinople.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 9th century was a period of amazing social and political change in the Balkans. We follow the Khans as they plot a path toward recognition of their right to exist.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the diplomatic and trade exchanges between Byzantium, the Caliphate and the Franks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlemagne's empire could not last. Frankish customs saw the realm divided and it would never be put back together.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Caliphate in decline the Romans take a greater interest in the Armenian lands on their eastern border. We explore the fragmented landscape and politics of Armenia and take a quick glance at Cilicia and the forts beyond.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin our end of the century episodes in the East. Since 838 the great Caliphal armies have not been seen in Anatolia. We explore why as the Caliphate slowly pulls itself apart across the 9th century.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Byzantine Stories episode three announcement 2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Byzantine Stories Episode 3 announcement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo enters the second half of his reign desperate to leave the Empire to a healthy son. Meanwhile his military are successful on land but suffer at sea.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Basil's son Leo was known as "the Wise" during his lifetime. We get to know the new Emperor and explore if this reputation was justified.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We follow Basil's time in office as tries to wash away the sin of murder and secure legitimacy for his new dynasty. He also tests the limits of Byzantium's growing power in East and West.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We chart the rise of Basil the Macedonian and his murder of both Bardas and Michael. We also look at how Basil's descendants would re-brand Michael as "the Drunkard" before saying goodbye to the Amorion Dynasty.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen here for an announcement about the second episode in the Byzantine Stories series and an increase in the subscription price. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theodora and Theoctistus rule for young Michael until he comes of age. Then Uncle Bardas takes over the government. Meanwhile the Romans begin to gain the upper hand in Anatolia while a schism with the Papacy looms.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theophilus reorganises the army and leaves the throne to his wife and two year-old son. Theodora decides to restore the Icons and we discuss the end to the Iconoclast era of Byzantine history.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We focus on Theophilus' record on the eastern front. The last gasp of true Caliphal power sees the Emperor harshly punished for his support of the Khurramite rebellion.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Young Theophilus becomes Emperor at a rare moment ofinternal peace. We look at his domestic policies across his 13 yearreign and touch on his non-Anatolian foreign policy.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael II tries to secure his regime now that the civil war is over. However attacks on Sicily and Crete prevent him from returning to "normality."  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo's murder is greeted with disgust in Anatolia where men rally behind Thomas the Slav. But back at the capital men get behind Michael of Amorium as a suitable replacement. This split leads to a three year civil war and a stalemate which suggests that God favours neither man.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thanks to all of you for helping us get to episode 100. And of course our eternal gratitude to Mike Duncan and The History of Rome podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo restores Iconoclasm and defeats the Bulgars in battle. After signing the peace treaty he raid the Caliphate and returns to domestic matters. However a palace conspiracy overthrows him in favour of his old ally Michael of Amorium.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo the Armenian becomes Leo V and waits out Krum's slaughter in Thrace. He also makes plans to restore Iconoclasm.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicephorus' successors are his wounded son and his unsuitable son-in-law. Between them they ensure that the dynasty comes to a sad end while Krum improves his position considerably.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why were the Bulgars so successful compared to their larger neighbour? We look at this question and the limitations of the Byzantine army on campaign as Nicephorus leads his men to their doom.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicephorus turns his attention to the Balkans and begins settling colonists in the Peloponnese. His plans for Macedonia though are thwarted by the Bulgars. The Emperor organises a mass migration from Anatolia to Europe and reorganises the Themes and the finances of the state to make the new venture a success.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The General Logothete Nicephorus becomes Emperor and embarks on a wide ranging programme of reform. In this episode we focus on relations with the Caliphate, Charlemagne and the clergy.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A reminder of where we've come from in the 8th century and where we are going in the 9th.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer your questions about the Themes, the Khazars, China, daily life and blinding. I also update our Constantine acrostic.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Interview with Paul Kastenellos (the pseudonym of author Vincent O'Reilly) about his two historical novels "Antonina - A Byzantine Slut" and "Count No Man Happy."  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I flesh out some details and answer your questions about the Roman army in 800AD.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I present a fantasy narrative of a soldier's life during a raid in Cappadocia. The details are all taken from Byzantine sources.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More Thoughts on "The Byzantine Republic" and my interview with Anthony Kaldellis.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Professor Anthony Kaldellis about his book "The Byzantine Republic." It's a fascinating discussion about Byzantine political culture. He explores what the Romans really thought about their government and what all those rebellions really say about them. You will want to hear this! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the lives of the people of Byzantium. From the Emperor through the court down to the farmers, merchants and minorities who made up the population.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the remaining provinces of the Roman Empire from Sicily to Cilicia. Ok Cilicia is no longer a part of the Empire but its on the border and I liked the alliteration.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the lives of the former Romans of Syria, Palestine and Egypt. We discuss the survival of language and Christianity and answer other listener questions. We also look at what the Romans and Arabs really thought of one another.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We return to 700AD to chart events in the Caliphate throughout the century. We follow the disintegration of Umayyad rule and the establishment of Abbasid Baghdad.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How did Charlemagne and Leo each spin the coronation of 800AD? And how did the Byzantines react to the growth of Frankish power? After examining these questions we look at your questions about the 8th century West. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at developments in the West during the 8th century. We follow the rise of the Carolingians and the amazing career of Charlemagne. We also see the various dilemma faced by the Papacy and how the collapse of Byzantine influence created a new power dynamic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Irene rules alone but the search for her successor undermines her. Then I recap the century and look at what Iconoclasm really represents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An army revolt leads to Constantine becoming sole ruler. But soon Irene is back in the palace while her son searches in vain for military glory. Eventually though her desire to rule again overwhelms her love for her son. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Empress Irene becomes Regent for her son Constantine VI and sets about securing their rule. She manages to gain the support of the bureaucracy, army and church. Then she organises another Ecumenical Council to restore the Icons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thoughts on the John Chrysostom series Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An introduction to life in Antioch in 350AD. Amidst the great buildings live the beleaguered poor of the Roman world. The Christians were destined to care for and convert these people but in 350AD the threat of losing souls to Judaism or Paganism was real. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to the latest podcast to find out about the new fundraising sale and your chance to get 4 new episodes of "The History of Byzantium." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine V faces a conspiracy against his throne and his response is violent. He continues to rebuild his capital and campaign against the Bulgars. Yet despite all his success he was remembered as the Dung named. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine V gathers an Ecumenical Council to gain acceptance for his views on the place of icons. He also goes to war with the Bulgar Khanate. We close by discussing his personal life and the capture of Ravenna by the Lombards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine V becomes Emperor but is immediately forced into a two year civil war. Once back in power we follow his reorganisation of the army and military planning in the face of the Caliphate's own internal struggles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at Leo's second decade in power. First tracing the military and political developments and then going back to look at the development of Iconoclasm. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at Leo's first decade in power. First tracing the military and political developments and then going back to look at domestic policies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look at the whole period of Iconoclasm as an introduction to this era. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with author Sean Munger about his book "Zombies of Byzantium." The novel is set during the Siege of 717-18 and sees an outbreak of the undead just as Maslama and Leo battle in Constantinople. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maslama puts Constantinople under siege. The Romans look to the heavens for a sign that God still favours them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We trace the origins of Leo III from his family's relocation to Thrace, his service in the Caucasus through to his interaction with the invading Arabs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justinian II tries to return to vigorous action but things quickly fall apart. The Arabs advance in the east and a rebellion in Cherson blows up. We meet our fourth, fifth and sixth Emperors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justinian II heads off into exile but dreams of returning to Constantinople. He makes friends in Cherson and talks openly of rebellion. The city's authorities report this to Apsimar and Justinian flees Cherson looking for an ally who can return him to the throne. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Arabs capture Carthage and the new Emperor Leontius is forced to send a fleet to recapture it. When that mission fails the men of the fleet wonder if one of their own might make a better Emperor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We finish our 7th century tour by answering more of your questions. We cover nose slitting, coins, education, fashion, when did Late Antiquity end and did the Romans miss the Persians? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with David Gyllenhaal, a PHD Student at Oxford University discussing his thesis on how the 7th century changed Byzantine self conception. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What did the Romans think was responsible for their defeats? We look at the Christian thought-world of the 7th century and the reactions from Byzantium and those left behind in the Caliphate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at the changes the Roman army and government went through in the 7th century and consider why the Romans survived. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look West at Spain, Gaul and Italy to see what has changed since 600AD. Then we head into the Balkans to peer into the darkness and try to understand who lived there. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that the Arabs have conquered Syria and Mesopotamia how did they organise themselves? And how did this contribute to their continuing military victories? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out how you can buy the sale episode on the Origins of Islam by listening to this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore more issues surrounding why the Arabs won. We look into their society. We explore the great battles themselves and the armies who fought in them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An interview with Tom Holland, author of the book "In the Shadow of the Sword." The book traces the origins of Islam by looking at the Jewish, Roman and Persian worlds of late antiquity. In the interview he gives his views on how this process worked and then I ask him why did the Arabs win? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why can't we entirely trust the traditional Islamic account of the conquests? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why did the Romans lose control of their Eastern provinces so easily? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justinian II comes to power aged 16 and begins imitating his namesake in ambition and productivity. He orders campaigns in east and west, begins building and taxing and calls for an Ecumenical Council. All the while though his popularity  plummets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine IV calls an Ecumenical Council to discuss the issue of Monotheletism. He also has to deal with an invasion of the Balkans by the Bulgars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constantine IV inherits his father's throne together with his ceaseless war with Muʿāwiyah. As the Caliph builds a fleet to threaten Constantinople the Emperor responds with the weapons at his disposal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Constans II uses the Muslim civil war to reorganise the Roman military in the East. Then he travels to the West making a new home for himself in Syracuse in Sicily. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heraclius' family fall out with each other over the succession. The crown eventually comes to rest on the head of the fourteen year old Constans II. He is left with an Empire under attack in Egypt, Armenia and the Mediterranean. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Arabs march on into Mesopotamia and Egypt. Meanwhile the bad news keeps piling up for Heraclius as he nears his final days. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Muslim Arabs invade Syria and begin to sweep away Roman resistance. Heraclius gathers the Army of the East for what he hopes will be a decisive battle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heraclius surveys his shattered realm and plans how to remake things. We deal with three issues specifically - the Imperial title, the Empire's Jews and the Monophysites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heraclius takes the winter off to plan what to do next. He needs to buy off the Avars as he removes all the remaining troops from the Balkans. After training the last Roman army left in the Empire, Heraclius prepares to march East and either restore the old borders or never return. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Byzantine Project Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Persians conquer Egypt as Nicetas fails to defend Alexandria. Heraclius tries to find a way to avoid blame for this disaster and acquire the resources to fight back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heraclius fails to push the Persians back and has to watch in horror as they capture Jerusalem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phocas is overthrown by Heraclius but the Empire's problems are only deepening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The narrative resumes with the new Emperor Phocas having to deal with yet another Persian invasion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore who the Byzantines thought they were and whether they were right. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I answer your 6th century questions from education to eunuchs and food to fleets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We travel through Spain, Gaul, Italy, the Balkans, Anatolia, the East and Persia to uncover the geo-political situation in 600AD. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at how Christianity spread more deeply into Roman culture across the 6th century and see how this affected the Empire's cities and Jews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at how the Roman army has changed up to the end of the 6th century. To guide us we are using the Byzantine army manual the Strategikon. We learn how the army fought, who fought, what they looked like and how they were organised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maurice has a tough decision to make about his role in the Persian civil war. Once that is over he turns his attention to the Balkans. Success in the field is ruined by the cost of paying the army. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new Emperor Maurice continues fighting on the Eastern front trying to convince the Persians to sign a peace treaty. But they won't. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new Emperor Tiberius II decided to throw the Empire's strength into the war with Persia. He spends liberally and recruits new men to bolster the Eastern Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new Emperor Justin II comes to power with the conviction that the Roman Empire should not be paying tribute to anyone. But after cancelling subsidies to the Avars, the Ghassanids and the Persians he finds himself with war and disaster on all sides. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was Justinian a good Emperor? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A series of natural disasters and domestic disturbances mar the final years of Justinian's reign. We also meet the Avars, bring silk to Byzantium and give Belisarius one last chance to shine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The men Justinian puts in charge of his military operations keep getting older or more unlikely as the 550s unfold. However they bring success in Italy, the Balkans, Lazica and then most surprisingly in Spain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the sack of Antioch, the Italian conquest falling apart and the Plague, the years 540-45 were like a nightmare for Justinian. The next five years would continue to bring bad news as war continues on every front and members of the Imperial family begin to die. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An explanation of the fund raising podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Plague arrives at Pelusium and spreads to Alexandria where it rages for four months. By Spring 542 the Egyptians have to begin sending out the grain fleets. They export the Plague with them and Constantinople endures a nightmare summer of death. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A clarification on the fundraising sale of Episode 28. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Khosrou leads the Persian Army across the border into Syria and begins extorting money from every city he passes. The Byzantine army is nowhere to be found as the army approaches the Empire's third largest city: Antioch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look at what else was going on in the Empire during the 530s including: monophysites, tax and administration, buildings, Africa and possibly a meteor strike. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Belisarius is content to leave John to die in Ariminum but the Chamberlain Narses arrives and begs to differ. Conflicts over how to complete the conquest of Italy lead to disaster at Milan and a long delay in finally reaching Ravenna. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Athalaric, Prince of the Goths dies in 534 his mother has to choose whether to flee East or try to cling to power. Amalasuntha makes the wrong choice and calls in her cousin Theodahad. When he has her killed he hands Justinian the chance to invade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We examine the Corpus Juris Civilis and the Hagia Sophia. The two achievements of Justinian's reign which outlasted both him and the Byzantine Empire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Nika Revolt quelled, Justinian orders Belisarius to retake the province of Africa. In the Summer of 533 an armada sets sail and lands east of Carthage. Belisarius leads his army cautiously up the coast as King Gelimer rallies his army. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In January 532 a seemingly typical riot at the races escalates into a full blown rebellion against Justinian. Trapped up in the Palace while Constantinople burns, the Emperor must decide whether to flee or to fight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part three we return to Constantinople and see Justinian begin to reform his Empire. We take a look at his building projects, his new legal code and the laws he enacted. Particularly those aimed at pagans and heretics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first five years of Justinian's reign (527-532) are so incident-filled that it will take us a few episodes to get through them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first five years of Justinian's reign (527-532) are so incident-filled that it will take us a few episodes to get through them. In part one we stay on the Eastern front for the Battle of Dara. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We continue the narrative on the Eastern frontier as Lazica and Iberia try to form an alliance with Byzantium and leave the Persian orbit. King Kavad responds by trying to get Justin to adopt his favourite son. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We get a thorough introduction to Justinian, Justin's nephew and presumed heir. We look as Justinian's education and the kind of worldview he was developing. We follow his rise up the ranks from Palace guard to potential Caesar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We restart the narrative with the death of the Emperor Anastasius and the accession of Justin, Count of the Excubitors. The new Emperor is decidedly orthodox and begins a persecution of the monophysites and heals the schism with Rome. We also introduce our sources for the period with particular attention paid to Procopius of Caesarea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 2 is the church and the army. We look at the administration of the church and its affects on society. Then we look at the size and disposition of the army and wrap up the tour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We finally end our tour of the Empire by examining the Byzantine state. By focussing on the government, the church and the army we see how the Empire is shaping up since the fall of the West and how it is set up to deal with the world we explored in the previous five episodes. Part 1 is the government as we look at the Emperor, his ministers and the wider civil service. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we move across the Bosporus into the Eastern Provinces and explore Anatolia, Syria, Palestine and Egypt. We then take a look at the neighbours of the Empire and see what the Persians are up to before moving on to the Arabs, Armenians and other peoples from the Caucus mountains. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We explore the capital of the Byzantine Empire: Constantinople. We look at the origins of the city and trace its development from Greek city to Imperial centre. Then we see why it had such a strategically valuable location. After that we visit the city itself in the 6th century from the Great Palace to the streets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look at the remaining Byzantine Balkan Provinces along with the northern neighbours of the Empire. We also take a glance at the Black Sea Coast and the Byzantine military interest in the Crimea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look at the former Roman Provinces of  Italy and Africa and see what Theodoric’s Ostrogoths and the Vandals, respectively, have been up to in the last century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We take a look at the former Roman Provinces of Gaul and Spain and see what the Franks and Goths have been up to in the last century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Emperor Anastasius now faces a real rebellion from the Count of the Federates in Thrace, Vitalian. The Emperor sends out an army under his nephew Hypatius but they are defeated and Vitalian marches on Constantinople. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Emperor Anastasius deals with more riots along with an invasion in the West by the Bulgars and the East by the Persians. He then begins to give in to his monophysite sympathies and is almost toppled after allowing his Patriarch to interfere with the O Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Emperor Zeno dies in 491 after trying to appease the monophysites with his 'Henoticon.' Zeno's widow Ariadne then gets to pick his succesor and marries Flavius Anastasius. We have a look at the early years of his reign and the Isaurian War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Emperor Zeno is now back in charge and has to deal with the members of the conspiracy that ousted him. In the first half of the episode we see how he handled his enemies close to him and in the second we look at his relationship with the Goths. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We journey back to 457 to introduce the Emperor Leo. I don’t cover his reign in full but there are important details about life in the East which “The History of Rome” didn’t cover. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An introduction for listeners who haven't listened to "The History of Rome" podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I explain the idea behind the podcast and how I intend to proceed. I also talk about how often I will be able to create episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.