
This is a study of the Byzantine emperor Basil II, the 'Bulgar-slayer'. Holmes peels away the layers of later interpretations to reveal an empire that was governed by a potent mixture of subtle persuasion and brute force. Basil's reign in modern and medieval historical literature -- Basil II and John Skylitzes: the historian's career and working methods -- Basil II and the testimony of John Skylitzes: textual analysis -- Basil II and the testimony of John Skylitzes: contexts -- The revolts of Skleros and Phokas: historiography and the Skleros manifesto -- Administration and imperial authority on the eastern frontier -- Administration and imperial authority on Byzantium's western frontiers -- The reign of Basil II: a reconstruction.
This study investigates the mechanisms of imperial governance employed by Basil II to maintain stability and authority across the Byzantine Empire between 976 and 1025. Catherine Holmes, a specialist in Byzantine history, utilizes a rigorous historiographical approach to deconstruct later myths surrounding the 'Bulgar-slayer.' By analyzing primary sources, specifically the testimony of John Skylitzes, she argues that Basil's reign was defined by a sophisticated interplay of administrative control, military force, and political persuasion rather than mere martial prowess.
What You Will Find
Scope Limits
Scholars recognize this work as a significant contribution to the study of Byzantine administrative history and the critical evaluation of medieval sources. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a foundational text for those researching the internal mechanics of the Macedonian dynasty.
Page Count:
0
Publication Date:
1900-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
019170735X
ISBN-13:
9780191707353
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