Procopius of Caesarea was the leading Roman / Byzantine historian of the sixth century. He was a well-born, well-connected official in the capital Constantinople. He is know to have produced three substantial works: The Wars of Justinian (De Bellis), The Buildings of Justinian (De Aedificiis), and The Secret History (Historia Arcana). Procopius wrote in Attic Greek in a classicizing style about event in which he had first-hand knowledge. He died about 554.
Procopius demonized Justinian more extensively than he did Theodora. Now we have as our woman-hero the Theodora of Victorien Sardou’s Théodora. … Read the post Procopius to Sardou: gender in demonization of Justinian & Theodora
In his Secret History, Procopius recorded 6th-century Byzantine Empress Theodora’s strong, independent sexuality and her full commitment to her career. … Read the post Empress Theodora, a woman leader with strong, independent sexuality
The eminent Byzantine general Belisarius licked the soles of his wife’s feet. That indicates men’s gynocentric subordination to women throughout history. … Read the post men leaders like General Belisarius lick women’s feet under gynocracy