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The Secret History

with Related Texts
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( 3,363 ratings, 365 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Secret History by Prokopios offers a behind-the-scenes account of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian and his court. This historical work reveals the darker aspects of political power, including deception and corruption, through the vivid narrations of a historian who had intimate access to the inner workings of the empire. The text serves as a fascinating exploration of the underbelly of one of history's most intriguing periods.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you have a keen interest in ancient Roman and Byzantine history, as it offers a candid and often scandalous account of the reign of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora. With a vivid portrayal of political intrigue and personal vendettas, it provides a unique perspective on the complexities of leadership and the behind-the-scenes machinations of the imperial court.

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Prokopios' Secret History , circa 550, presents the author's disillusionment with the reign of the Roman emperor Justinian.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

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

Faithfully rendered here in blunt and idiomatic English, Prokopios' tell-all is as shocking today as it was in the sixth century. Kaldellis' substantial introduction addresses, among other topics, the historical background to The Secret History; Prokopios' literary style and major themes; and the relationships between Prokopios, Justinian, and Empress Theodora.

Maps, genealogies, a glossary, and a selection of related texts (including excerpts from Prokopios' Wars and Buildings, and several contemporary documents) enhance and support the reading of this scandalous and suspenseful book.

Series: Hackett Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Secret History by Prokopios is praised for its accurate translation and informative supplementary materials. The introduction is noted as comprehensive and enlightening, appealing to both newcomers and experienced Byzantinists.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781603841801

Publisher: Hackett Publishing Co, Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 15 March 2010

Country: United States

Imprint: Hackett Publishing Co, Inc

Illustration: Illustrations

Contributors:

  • Edited by Anthony Kaldellis

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 312g

Pages: 276

About the Author

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

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