The History of Byzantium
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A podcast telling the story of the Roman (Byzantine) Empire from 476 AD to 1453. www.thehistoryofbyzantium.com
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Available episodes
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Oldest first
2 days ago
Episode 275 - Climate Change in the 6th Century with Robert Bruton
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.
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Aug 22, 2023
Episode 274 - The 10 Worst Emperors with Anthony Kaldellis
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.
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Aug 18, 2023
Byzantine Fiction special offer
The Guardians of Byzantium - Book 2 is now available. Listen for a special offer to get hold of both books today.
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Aug 13, 2023
Episode 273 - Rome and Persia: The 700 Year Rivalry with Adrian Goldsworthy
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.
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Jul 14, 2023
Episode 271 - Twilight Cities with Katherine Pangonis
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.
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Jul 6, 2023
Episode 270 - Loss, Suffering and Enslavement
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.
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Jun 2, 2023
June 2023 Schedule Update
June 2023 Schedule Update
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May 19, 2023
Episode 269 - Questions XIII
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.
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May 14, 2023
Episode 268 - The Collapse of the Komnenian System
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.
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May 5, 2023
Episode 267 - Provincial Separatism with Nathan Websdale
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.
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Apr 21, 2023
Episode 266 - Questions XII
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.
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Apr 14, 2023
Episode 265 - The 10 Greatest Emperors with Anthony Kaldellis
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.
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Apr 6, 2023
Episode 264 - Questions XI
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?
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Mar 30, 2023
Episode 263 - Questions X
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.
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Mar 23, 2023
Episode 262 - Questions IX
I answer listener questions about the Fourth Crusade. This episode focuses on the big picture. Who is to blame? Was it inevitable?
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Mar 4, 2023
Antakya Appeal with Andrea de Giorgi and Katherine Pangonis
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…
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Feb 13, 2023
A personal appeal from a listener
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/…
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Feb 11, 2023
An appeal for help for Turkey and Syria
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-turkey
International Red Cross
https://www.icrc.org/en/donate/syria-emergency
Turkish Red Crescent
https://www.kizilay.org.tr/Bagis/BagisYap/404/pazarcik-depremi-bagisi
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Feb 7, 2023
Episode 261 - The Sack
We discuss what happened once the Latins started looting. How were the Byzantines treated? What was taken and what has survived?
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Jan 31, 2023
Episode 260 - The Fourth Crusade (Part 2)
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
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Jan 24, 2023
Episode 259 - The Fourth Crusade (Part 1)
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.
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Jan 18, 2023
Episode 258 - Almost Ungovernable
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.
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Jan 10, 2023
Episode 257 - What Could Be More Trustworthy than a Brother?
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.
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Dec 28, 2022
Episode 255 - The Third Crusade (part 1)
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.
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Dec 21, 2022
Episode 254 - Saladin the Strategist with Ben Duval
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.
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Dec 13, 2022
Episode 253 - The Second Bulgarian Empire
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.
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Dec 6, 2022
Episode 252 - The Sack of Thessalonica
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
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Nov 29, 2022
Episode 251 - A Lion Pouncing on a Large Prey
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.
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Aug 25, 2022
Episode 250 - Retaking Anatolia
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
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Aug 18, 2022
Episode 249 - Life in Byzantine Anatolia
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.
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Aug 10, 2022
Episode 248 - Life in Turkic Anatolia
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.
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Aug 8, 2022
August 2022 Update
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.
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Jun 14, 2022
And the Winner is
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.
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May 11, 2022
Baby and New Schedule
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 kin…
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May 5, 2022
Episode 247 - Writing Byzantine Fiction with Gordon Doherty
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.
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Apr 20, 2022
Episode 246 - Travelling to Turkey with Şerif Yenen
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.
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Apr 16, 2022
April 2022 Update
April 2022 Update
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Apr 5, 2022
Episode 245 - Means and Ends
I answer listener questions about Manuel's reign.
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Mar 29, 2022
Episode 244 - Not Completely Unreasonable
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
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Mar 22, 2022
Episode 243 - The Battle of Myriokephalon
Manuel launches a Crusade against the Turks of Iconium.
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Mar 10, 2022
The History of Byzantium on Youtube - Flash Point History
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.
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Mar 10, 2022
Episode 242 - Manuel’s Follies
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
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Feb 26, 2022
History of Byzantium Tour - April 23 to May 2, 2022
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 thehistoryofbyzantium@gmail.com
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Feb 22, 2022
Episode 241 - Hungary for Security
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
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Feb 14, 2022
Episode 240 - Manuel’s Constantinople
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
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Feb 4, 2022
Episode 239 - The New Aristocracy
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
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Jan 26, 2022
Episode 238 - Queens of Jerusalem with Katherine Pangonis
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 website
To listen to the book for free why not use Audible's 30-day trial
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Jan 24, 2022
Episode 237 - Manuel and Andronikos
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
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Jan 7, 2022
Episode 236 - Why Make Peace?
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.
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Dec 21, 2021
Episode 235 - Sundered by Gold
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.
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Dec 13, 2021
Episode 234 - Changing Priorities
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.
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Nov 25, 2021
Episode 232 - The Second Crusade, Part 2
We follow the Emperor Conrad and King Louis as they both attempt to cross Anatolia.
Period: 1147-1148
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Nov 21, 2021
Episode 231 - The Second Crusade, Part 1
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
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Nov 13, 2021
Episode 230 - The Sack of Edessa
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.
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Nov 2, 2021
Discussion with Marco Capelli about Byzantium and Italy
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).
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Oct 23, 2021
Family Update
Family Update
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Oct 10, 2021
Episode 229 - John Komnenos with Dr Maximilian Lau
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. Bu…
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Oct 3, 2021
Episode 228 - Forgiveness not Permission
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
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Sep 22, 2021
Episode 227 - Just Take the Damn City
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
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Sep 17, 2021
Episode 226 - A Crowded Chessboard
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: 1118-1127
If you want to send in feedback to the podcast:
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Aug 28, 2021
Back to the Narrative
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 ad…
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Aug 2, 2021
Family Illness
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.
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Jul 14, 2021
Byzantine Stories, Episode 9 - Women in the Byzantine World. Part 1 - Immense and Immeasurable
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
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Jul 14, 2021
Women in the Byzantine World announcement
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 thehistoryofbyzantium@gmail.com.
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…
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May 13, 2021
An update on the schedule of the podcast, May 2021
An Update on the schedule of the podcast, May 2021
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Apr 16, 2021
Backer Rewards Episode 16 - Russia and Byzantium with Professor Sergey Ivanov
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 othe…
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Mar 10, 2021
Merchandise
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…
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Mar 4, 2021
Episode 225 - Belisarius in Metal
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…
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Feb 23, 2021
Episode 224 - The Coup of Anna Komnene with Leonora Neville
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.
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Feb 16, 2021
Episode 223 - Questions VIII
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.
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Feb 11, 2021
Schedule and Patreon Update.
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.
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Oct 14, 2020
An update on the schedule of the podcast
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
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Oct 2, 2020
Episode 222 - The Good Helmsman
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.
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Sep 24, 2020
Episode 221 - The Triptych
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.
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Sep 15, 2020
Episode 220 - The Crusade of 1101
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.
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Sep 4, 2020
Episode 219 - A Spectacular Interruption or Jerusalem is now available
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
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Aug 16, 2020
Episode 218 - The Siege of Antioch
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 effect
00.00-03.05 Introduction
03.06-08.47 Why did the Crusaders have to capture Antioch?
08.48-14.22 Baldwin at Edessa
14.23-17.14 The political fragmentation of Syria
17.15-27.35 The geography of Antioch
27.36-33.52 Early stages of the siege
33.53-46.35 Winter stalemate. Suffering and desertions. Bohemond and Robert of Flanders drive off forces from Damascus
46.36-54.42 Victory over the forces of Aleppo
54.43-62.18 More fully surrounding the city
62.19-77.09 Antioch falls
77.10-84.24 The Crusaders besieged. Kerbogah attacks…
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Jul 2, 2020
Episode 217 - Diverging Paths
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.
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Jun 28, 2020
Episode 216 - The Battle of Dorylaeum
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.
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Jun 25, 2020
Final reminder about the Intelligent Speech Conference
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
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Jun 19, 2020
Episode 215 - The Siege of Nicaea
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.
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Jun 18, 2020
Basil II may have been gay! Intelligent Speech tickets still available for $10
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.
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Jun 15, 2020
Buy Intelligent Speech tickets now! Prices going up!
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/
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Jun 12, 2020
Episode 214 - The Prince's Crusade
The senior nobles of the First Crusade make the journey to Constantinople. There Alexios asks them to swear an oath of allegiance to him.
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Jun 5, 2020
Episode 213 - The People's Crusade
Our narrative resumes as the so-called People's Crusade crosses the Danube and heads for Constantinople.
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May 29, 2020
Intelligent Speech Conference 2020
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
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May 17, 2020
Episode 212 - Who went on Crusade and why?
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?
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May 13, 2020
Episode 211 - Why people went on Crusade with Sharyn Eastaugh
Sharyn Eastaugh from the History of the Crusades podcast explores why people responded to Urban's call.
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May 8, 2020
Episode 210 - What did Urban say?
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.
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May 3, 2020
Episode 209 - What about Jerusalem?
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?
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Apr 27, 2020
Episode 208 - The Call from the East with Peter Frankopan
An interview with Professor Peter Frankopan about his book 'The First Crusade: The Call from the East.'
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Apr 24, 2020
Episode 207 - What did Urban want?
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.
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Apr 22, 2020
Episode 206 - What did Alexios want?
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?
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Apr 20, 2020
Episode 205 - Introducing the Crusades
A quick introduction to the Crusading topic and a discussion of how religious interpretations of historical events can be particularly distorting.
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Mar 26, 2020
Episode 204 - Komnenian Reforms
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.
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Mar 13, 2020
Episode 203 - The Pecheneg Wars, again
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.
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Mar 8, 2020
Episode 202 - A Wild West Vibe
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.
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Feb 28, 2020
Episode 201 - A Narrow Escape
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.
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Feb 24, 2020
Episode 200 - A Tribute to Professor Mark Whittow
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.
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Feb 14, 2020
Episode 199 - The Battle of Dyrrachium
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.
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Feb 9, 2020
Episode 198 - Heavy Lifting
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.
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Jan 24, 2020
Episode 197 - Anna Komnene with Leonora Neville
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.
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Jan 23, 2020
The House of War is live
4 new episodes based on the original House of War episode are now available for purchase. Listen to this update for more information.
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Jan 17, 2020
Episode 196 - Cultural Revival
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.
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Jan 14, 2020
January 2020 Update
An update on the podcast, the Kickstarter projects and a couple of recommendations.
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Oct 21, 2019
Backer Rewards Episode 15 - The Hagia Sophia and Imperial Coronations
Our fifteenth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at some aspects of the Hagia Sophia and the coronation ceremony of Emperors.
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Sep 17, 2019
On Stage with Mike Duncan!
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
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Aug 12, 2019
Robin interviewed on the Roads to Liberty Podcast
Robin interviewed on the Roads to Liberty Podcast
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Jul 28, 2019
Live Facebook recording today
Live Facebook recording today
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Jul 25, 2019
2020 Tours
2020 Istanbul, Cappadocia and Ephesus Tour information
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Jul 23, 2019
Episode 195 - King of the Ashes
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.
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Jul 4, 2019
Episode 194 - Normandy-in-Anatolia
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.
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Jun 28, 2019
Episode 193 - Manzikert
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.
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May 31, 2019
Episode 192 - Feeling Blank
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.
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May 24, 2019
Episode 191 - The Sack of Ani
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.
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May 12, 2019
Episode 190 - The End of the Macedonian Dynasty
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.
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May 3, 2019
An interview with Barry Strauss - Author of '10 Caesars' and the 'Antiquitas' podcast
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.
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Apr 26, 2019
Backer Rewards Episode 14 - The City of Rome with Steve Guerra
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.
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Apr 7, 2019
Backer Rewards Episode 13 – The Byzantine Legacy
Our thirteenth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at the legacy of Byzantium and why it seems so forgotten today.
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Mar 25, 2019
Episode 189 - End of Act Two
As Constantine IX leaves the stage we see him desperately searching for ways to raise tax revenue.
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Mar 15, 2019
Episode 188 - The Great Schism
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.
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Mar 7, 2019
Episode 187 - Hey Big Spender
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.
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Mar 1, 2019
Episode 186 - The Pecheneg Wars
The first large Seljuk raids on the Empire lead to a series of events which unravel Byzantium's Western defences.
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Feb 22, 2019
The History of History Podcasting
A quick interview with me about the History of History Podcasting
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Feb 15, 2019
Episode 185 - Winning the Election
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.
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Feb 7, 2019
Episode 184 - Act Two Begins
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.
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Feb 1, 2019
Backer Rewards Episode 12 - Harald Hardrada with Noah Tetzner
Our twelfth Kickstarter backers reward episode looks at the life of Harald Hardrada in conversation with Noah Tetzner from the History of Vikings Podcast.
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Jan 25, 2019
Episode 183 is live
If you'd like to hear about the dramatic fall of Michael V then episode 183 is now available to buy
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Jan 18, 2019
Episode 182 - The Double Agent
We cover the Bulgarian uprising of 1040 and the events elsewhere in the Balkans which led up to it.
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Jan 11, 2019
Episode 181 - A Bunch of Nobodies
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.
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Dec 28, 2018
Episode 180 - Stumbling Forward
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.
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Dec 22, 2018
Episode 179 - Where Were We
We return to the narrative with a short introduction and the short reign of Basil's brother Constantine VIII.
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Dec 14, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 11 - The Jewish Communities of Byzantium
Our eleventh Kickstarter backers reward episode explores Byzantium's Jewish communities.
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Dec 7, 2018
Episode 178 - Questions VII
Listener questions on Varangians, provincial administration, diplomacy, family mottos and the ever popular top 5 best and worst Emperors.
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Dec 1, 2018
Episode 177 - Questions VI
Listener questions on houses, slavery, citizenship, vacations and common sayings amongst others.
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Nov 25, 2018
Episode 176 - Michael Psellos with Peter Adamson
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.
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Nov 20, 2018
Episode 175 - The Turks
The Turks are coming to the borders of Armenia and we examine why.
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Nov 7, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 10 - Economy and Population Questions
Our tenth Kickstarter backers reward episode answers a series of questions about the growing population and economy.
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Nov 1, 2018
Episode 174 - The Economic Recovery
We explore the economic recovery of the Empire.
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Oct 19, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 9 - The Sweep of History
Our ninth Kickstarter backers reward episode discusses the sweep of history during our period and what lies under the maps.
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Oct 12, 2018
Episode 173 - Dead Ideas Podcast interview: The Varangian Guard
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.
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Oct 5, 2018
Episode 172 - The Roman Army in 1025 AD
We discuss the past century of success for the Roman military and answer some listener questions
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Sep 27, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 8 - Greek Fire on Land
Our eighth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about the use of Greek Fire on land.
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Sep 21, 2018
Episode 171 - The Eastern Frontier
We head to the Eastern frontier to see what Byzantium's expansion into Armenia meant for the Empire.
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Sep 19, 2018
Tour Announcement
The 2019 History of Byzantium tour is here. Book your place now!
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Sep 14, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 7 - Georgia and the Black Sea
Our seventh Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about Georgia, the Orthodox nations around the Black Sea and Ravenna.
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Sep 7, 2018
Episode 170 - The "Conquest" of Armenia
We head to the Eastern frontier to see what Byzantium's expansion into Armenia meant for the Empire.
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Aug 24, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 6 - Respect, Institutions, Justice
Our sixth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about the institutions which influenced Byzantine life and the legal punishments for everyday crimes.
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Aug 19, 2018
Episode 169 - Constantinople in 1025
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.
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Aug 7, 2018
Byzantine Stories Episode 7 Announcement
Byzantine Stories Episode 7: Women in the Roman World is now available
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Jul 8, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 5 - Imperial Qualities and More Feelings
Our fifth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about what makes a good Emperor and more about feeling attached to the Romans.
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Jun 28, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 4 - Lucky Romans and Being a Celebrity
Our fourth Kickstarter backers reward episode features questions about Constantinople and some personal ones for me.
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Jun 23, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 3 - What was Istanbul like?
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.
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Jun 12, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 2 - A Day in the Life of a Podcaster
Our second Kickstarter backers reward episode featuring some book recommendations and me describing a day in the life of a podcaster.
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Jun 6, 2018
Episode 168 - A Guided Tour
What would a foreign visitor to Constantinople expect to see and hear?
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Jun 4, 2018
Hello from Istanbul
Hello from Istanbul
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May 28, 2018
Episode 167 - Five Centuries On
We survey the main structures and services of Constantinople to see what has changed since 518 AD (episode 10 of the show)
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May 23, 2018
Post Script to episode 166
An explanation and some credits from Episode 166 - To The City.
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May 21, 2018
Episode 166 - To The City
You visit Constantinople, guided by a stranger.
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May 12, 2018
Backer Rewards Episode 1 - Byzantine Games
Our first Kickstarter backers reward episode showcasing the Byzantine board and role playing games available.
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Apr 12, 2018
Send me your thoughts
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.
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Mar 27, 2018
Final Kickstarter Reminder
Final Kickstarter Reminder
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Mar 20, 2018
Episode 165 - The Eagle and the Frogs
We explore the reasons why the Bulgarians never became Romans.
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Mar 18, 2018
Episode 164 - Don't Believe Your Map
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.
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Mar 15, 2018
Ask Me Anything
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.
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Mar 10, 2018
A replay of the House of War
A replay of episode 89 "The House of War"
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Mar 6, 2018
Episode 163 - The Magyars, Pechenegs and Rus
We trace the interconnected developments of the Magyars, Pechenegs and Rus.
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Mar 1, 2018
Istanbul Kickstarter Campaign
My Istanbul Kickstarter Campaign launches today. Please consider supporting it.
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Feb 27, 2018
Episode 162 - Venetians and Normans
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.
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Feb 19, 2018
Episode 161 - Not Yet Holy Roman Emperors
We talk about developments in the Frankish realm as they relate to Byzantium across the past century.
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Feb 6, 2018
Episode 160 - Why Italy Matters
We talk about the big picture status of Italy during the 10th century and why it mattered to Byzantium.
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Jan 23, 2018
Byzantine Stories episode six announcement
Byzantine Stories episode six announcement
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Dec 22, 2017
Episode 159 - Rest in Peace
We discuss Byzantine funeral practices and the burial places of Emperors.
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Dec 15, 2017
Episode 158 - The Legend Slayer
I answer some listener questions about Basil II and Byzantine first names.
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Dec 8, 2017
Update on schedule and Istanbul
Update on schedule and Istanbul
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Nov 8, 2017
Episode 157 - The Culmination
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.
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Oct 27, 2017
Episode 156 - The Half Blind Leading the Blind
We discuss campaigning in the Balkans, the end of the Bulgarian war and the legend of the Bulgar Slayer.
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Oct 23, 2017
Episode 155 - The Year 1000
Basil continues his campaigns against the Fatimids and the Bulgarians. We also discuss the turning of the year 1000.
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Oct 13, 2017
Episode 154 - A Cat Among Mice
We discuss the origins of the revived Bulgarian Empire and follow Basil as he campaigns against them and the Fatimids in the East.
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Oct 6, 2017
Episode 153 - Basil II
Finally Basil II stands alone as master of the Roman world. Let's get to know him.
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Sep 29, 2017
Episode 152 - Bardas Phokas
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.
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Sep 20, 2017
Episode 151 - Bardas Sclerus
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.
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Sep 14, 2017
Podcasting in Istanbul?
Your feedback needed on the idea of me travelling to Istanbul to record material for the podcast.
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Sep 8, 2017
Episode 150 - Basil Lekapenos
The narrative resumes with Basil Lekapenos elevating his great-nephew Basil II to the throne. However Bardas Sclerus immediately rebels and declares himself Emperor.
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Sep 7, 2017
Episode 149 - Streams of Gold, Rivers of Blood
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.
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Sep 1, 2017
Episode 148 - Sources and Magnates
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.
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Aug 24, 2017
Episode 147 - Bulgarian Solidarity
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.
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Aug 18, 2017
Episode 146 - What's the Plan?
Did the Romans dream of reconquering their eastern provinces? Or were their border acquisitions enough?
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Aug 13, 2017
Episode 145 - The Eastern Conquests
We discuss the eastern conquests and how valuable they really were. As well as the deployment and organisation of the military in the borderlands.
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Aug 3, 2017
Episode 144 - Setting the Table
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.
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Jul 17, 2017
Byzantine Stories Episode 5 - Roman Healthcare. Part 1 - Choosing Your Provider
Part 1 is an overview of the history of Greek medicine. How it developed and what kind of treatments were on offer.
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Jun 23, 2017
Episode 143 - Strange Trajectories
John returns home triumphant but must deal with the Fatimid attacks in the east.
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Jun 19, 2017
Listener Survey
Please help the show by filling out our listener survey
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Jun 18, 2017
Episode 142 - Brave in Danger
John Tzimiskes faces down the Phokas rebellion and then marches for Bulgaria to take on the Rus.
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Jun 8, 2017
Episode 141 - How To Get Away With Murder
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.
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May 26, 2017
Episode 140 - Magnificent and Insufferable
Nicephorus Phokas is murdered by his nephew John Tzimiskes. We discuss the plot, the aftermath and the personalities of both men.
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May 21, 2017
Episode 139 - All In A Day's Work
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.
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May 18, 2017
Moving to Acast
Moving to Acast
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May 12, 2017
Episode 138 - Abhorring the Palace
Nicephorus stays at home to administer his realm and manages to alienate every strata of society.
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Apr 28, 2017
Episode 137 - Cilicia
Nicephorus leads the armies in person against Tarsus and Mopsuestia, bringing Cilicia and Cyprus back into the Empire.
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Apr 23, 2017
Episode 136 - The White Death of the Saracens
We discuss Nicephorus' life and career and what his rise meant for Romania.
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Apr 13, 2017
Episode 135 – Triumphal Procession
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.
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Apr 9, 2017
Episode 134 - Third Time's the Charm
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.
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Mar 24, 2017
Episode 133 - Sowing the Dragon’s Teeth with Eric McGeer
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.
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Mar 18, 2017
Episode 132 - Escalating Violence
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.
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Mar 10, 2017
Episode 131 - False Economy
Constantine VII seeks peace in the east but Sayf al-Dawla is not interested. The Emperor presses on with the attempted pacification of Crete.
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Mar 3, 2017
Episode 130 - The Empire That Would Not Die with John Haldon
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.
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Feb 24, 2017
Episode 129 is available
Episode 129 is available
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Feb 17, 2017
Episode 128 - The Prudent Course
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.
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Feb 10, 2017
Episode 127 - Melitene
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.
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Feb 3, 2017
Episode 126 - Attract and Repel
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.
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Jan 27, 2017
Episode 125 - A Tsar is Born
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.
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Jan 20, 2017
Episode 124 - A Roman Story
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.
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Jan 10, 2017
Episode 123 - Dramatis Personae
We review the players in the impending struggle over the throne. And answer some more listener questions on the way.
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Jan 5, 2017
Byzantine Stories Episode Four Announcement
Byzantine Stories Episode Four Announcement
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Dec 17, 2016
Episode 122 - Questions V
I answer more of your questions including sports, Iconoclasm, prices, symbols, literature and more.
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Dec 11, 2016
Episode 121 - The Roman Army in 900AD
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.
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Nov 30, 2016
Episode 120 - The Magnates
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.
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Nov 17, 2016
Episode 119 - Follow the Money
We explore arguments for and against the idea that commerce was a huge source of revenue for Byzantium.
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Nov 9, 2016
Episode 118 - Revival
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.
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Oct 28, 2016
Episode 117 - Questions IV
Its time for some of your questions. We cover queries about the Bulgars, Slavs, Greece, Coins and modern Romania.
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Oct 19, 2016
Episode 116 - North of the Danube
We place the Khazars, Magyars, Pechenegs and Rus on the map and explore their relationships with Constantinople.
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Oct 12, 2016
Episode 115 - The Rise of Bulgaria
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.
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Oct 5, 2016
Episode 114 - International Relations
We explore the diplomatic and trade exchanges between Byzantium, the Caliphate and the Franks.
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Sep 28, 2016
Episode 113 - Carolingian Decline
Charlemagne's empire could not last. Frankish customs saw the realm divided and it would never be put back together.
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Sep 21, 2016
Episode 112 - The Frontier
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.
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Sep 14, 2016
Episode 111 - Abbasid Decline
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.
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Aug 5, 2016
Byzantine Stories Episode 3 announcement 2
Byzantine Stories episode three announcement 2
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Jul 26, 2016
Byzantine Stories Episode 3 announcement
Byzantine Stories Episode 3 announcement
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Jul 12, 2016
Episode 110 - The Four Wives of Leo VI
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.
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Jul 5, 2016
Episode 109 - Leo the Wise?
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.
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Jun 18, 2016
Episode 108 - Known Unknowns
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.
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Jun 10, 2016
Episode 107 - Keeping up with the Macedonians
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.
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Jun 2, 2016
Byzantine Stories Episode 2 Announcement
Listen here for an announcement about the second episode in the Byzantine Stories series and an increase in the subscription price.
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May 30, 2016
Episode 106 - Mother and Uncle
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.
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May 20, 2016
Episode 105 - The Triumph of Orthodoxy
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.
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Apr 27, 2016
Episode 104 - God-Fearing
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.
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Apr 14, 2016
Episode 103 - God-Loving
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.
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Mar 26, 2016
Episode 102 - The Islands
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."
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Mar 13, 2016
Episode 101 - Thomas the Slav
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.
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Feb 19, 2016
Episode 100 - An Interview with Mike Duncan
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.
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Feb 14, 2016
Episode 99 - Michael of Amorium
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.
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Feb 6, 2016
Episode 98 - Leo the Armenian
Leo the Armenian becomes Leo V and waits out Krum's slaughter in Thrace. He also makes plans to restore Iconoclasm.
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Jan 31, 2016
Episode 97 - Michael Rhangabe, Emperor of the Romans
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.
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Jan 24, 2016
Episode 96 - Shoulda
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.
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Jan 17, 2016
Episode 95 - Coulda
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.
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Jan 10, 2016
Episode 94 - Woulda
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.
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Jan 3, 2016
Episode 93 - Recap and Precap
A reminder of where we've come from in the 8th century and where we are going in the 9th.
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Dec 23, 2015
Episode 92 - Questions III
I answer your questions about the Themes, the Khazars, China, daily life and blinding. I also update our Constantine acrostic.
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Dec 21, 2015
Episode 91 - An Interview with Author Vincent O'Reilly
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."
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Dec 16, 2015
Episode 90 - The Roman Army in 800AD
I flesh out some details and answer your questions about the Roman army in 800AD.
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Dec 4, 2015
Episode 89 - The House of War
I present a fantasy narrative of a soldier's life during a raid in Cappadocia. The details are all taken from Byzantine sources.
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Nov 22, 2015
Episode 88 - More Thoughts on the Byzantine Republic by Anthony Kaldellis
More Thoughts on "The Byzantine Republic" and my interview with Anthony Kaldellis.
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Nov 12, 2015
Episode 87 - The Byzantine Republic with Anthony Kaldellis
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!
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Oct 31, 2015
Episode 86 - The People
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.
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Oct 17, 2015
Episode 85 - Imperial Territory
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.
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Oct 3, 2015
Episode 84 - The Leftovers
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.
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Sep 25, 2015
Episode 83 - The Decline and Fall of the Arab Empire
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.
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Sep 10, 2015
Episode 82 - Charlemagne and Leo (part 2)
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.
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Sep 4, 2015
Episode 81 - Charlemagne and Leo (part 1)
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.
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Aug 22, 2015
Episode 80 - The Isaurian Dynasty
Irene rules alone but the search for her successor undermines her. Then I recap the century and look at what Iconoclasm really represents.
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Aug 14, 2015
Episode 79 - A Mother's Love
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.
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Aug 5, 2015
Episode 78 - A New Helena
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.
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Aug 3, 2015
Thoughts on the John Chrysostom series
Thoughts on the John Chrysostom series
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Jul 26, 2015
Byzantine Stories Episode 1 - John Chrysostom. Part 1 - Welcome to Antioch
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.
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Jul 24, 2015
An update on the Fundraising Sale and the new RSS Feed
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."
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Jul 9, 2015
Episode 76 - The Dung Named
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.
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Jun 24, 2015
Episode 75 - The Headless Council
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.
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Jun 2, 2015
Episode 74 - The Quest for Legitimacy
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.
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May 15, 2015
Episode 73 - Leo's Reign in the 730s
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.
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May 1, 2015
Episode 72 - Leo's Reign in the 720s
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.
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Apr 19, 2015
Episode 71 - Iconoclasm
We take a look at the whole period of Iconoclasm as an introduction to this era.
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Apr 12, 2015
Episode 70 - Zombies of Byzantium
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.
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Mar 31, 2015
Episode 69 - Lost to the West
Maslama puts Constantinople under siege. The Romans look to the heavens for a sign that God still favours them.
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Mar 13, 2015
Episode 68 - Leo III
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.
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Mar 3, 2015
Episode 67 - The Tightening Noose
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.
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Feb 24, 2015
Episode 66 - The Emperor Strikes Back
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.
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Feb 13, 2015
Episode 65 - Seven Emperors
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.
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Feb 10, 2015
Episode 64 - Questions II
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?
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Feb 3, 2015
Episode 63 - Byzantine Theodicy with David Gyllenhaal
An interview with David Gyllenhaal, a PHD Student at Oxford University discussing his thesis on how the 7th century changed Byzantine self conception.
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Jan 27, 2015
Episode 62 - God's Punishment
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.
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Jan 20, 2015
Episode 61 - Why did the Romans Survive?
We look at the changes the Roman army and government went through in the 7th century and consider why the Romans survived.
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Jan 9, 2015
Episode 60 - Looking West
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.
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Dec 12, 2014
Episode 59 - Why did the Arabs win? Part 4: The Conquest Society
Now that the Arabs have conquered Syria and Mesopotamia how did they organise themselves? And how did this contribute to their continuing military victories?
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Dec 4, 2014
An explantion of The Origins of Islam episode
Find out how you can buy the sale episode on the Origins of Islam by listening to this episode.
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Nov 15, 2014
Episode 58 - Why did the Arabs win? Part 3: They Wanted it More
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.
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Nov 6, 2014
Episode 57 - Why did the Arabs win? Part 2: In the Shadow of the Sword
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?
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Nov 4, 2014
Episode 56 - Why did the Arabs win? Part 1: The Sources
Why can't we entirely trust the traditional Islamic account of the conquests?
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Oct 24, 2014
Episode 55 - Why did the Romans lose?
Why did the Romans lose control of their Eastern provinces so easily?
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Oct 6, 2014
Episode 54 - Justinian II
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.
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Sep 25, 2014
Episode 53 - The Bulgars are Coming
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.
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Sep 18, 2014
Episode 52 - The Non-Siege of Constantinople
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.
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Sep 4, 2014
Episode 51 - The Themes
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.
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Aug 26, 2014
Episode 50 - The Teenage Emperor
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.
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Aug 8, 2014
Episode 49 - The Man Who Lived Too Long
The Arabs march on into Mesopotamia and Egypt. Meanwhile the bad news keeps piling up for Heraclius as he nears his final days.
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Aug 1, 2014
Episode 48 - The Battle of Hieromyax
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.
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Jul 11, 2014
Episode 47 - A Brief Respite
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.
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Jul 8, 2014
Episode 46 - The Final War
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.
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Mar 6, 2014
Byzantine Project Update
Byzantine Project Update
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Feb 14, 2014
Episode 45 - The Empty Fleet
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.
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Jan 31, 2014
Episode 44 - Unceasing Lamentations
Heraclius fails to push the Persians back and has to watch in horror as they capture Jerusalem.
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Jan 17, 2014
Episode 43 - Heraclius to the rescue
Phocas is overthrown by Heraclius but the Empire's problems are only deepening.
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Jan 9, 2014
Episode 42 - In Fairness to Phocas
The narrative resumes with the new Emperor Phocas having to deal with yet another Persian invasion.
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Dec 21, 2013
Episode 41 - Who is a Byzantine?
We explore who the Byzantines thought they were and whether they were right.
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Dec 14, 2013
Episode 40 - Questions
I answer your 6th century questions from education to eunuchs and food to fleets.
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Dec 5, 2013
Episode 39 - Neighbours and Provinces
We travel through Spain, Gaul, Italy, the Balkans, Anatolia, the East and Persia to uncover the geo-political situation in 600AD.
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Nov 29, 2013
Episode 38 - Christianising
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.
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Oct 4, 2013
Episode 37 - The Army of the Strategikon
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.
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Sep 13, 2013
Episode 36 - The End of Legitimacy
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.
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Aug 30, 2013
Episode 35 - The Lucky Break
The new Emperor Maurice continues fighting on the Eastern front trying to convince the Persians to sign a peace treaty. But they won't.
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Aug 16, 2013
Episode 34 - Overbalancing
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.
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Aug 2, 2013
Episode 33 - The Madness of Justin II
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.
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Jul 22, 2013
Episode 32 - The True Believer
Was Justinian a good Emperor?
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