Byzantine Empire - World History Encyclopedia

The Byzantine Empire Overview

Existed from 330 to 1453, often referred to as the Eastern Roman Empire or Byzantium.
Founded by Constantine I when he moved the Roman capital to Byzantium, renamed Constantinople.
At its peak, controlled territories in Italy, Greece, the Balkans, Levant, Asia Minor, and North Africa.
Predominantly a Christian state with Greek as the official language.
Developed a distinct political system, religious practices, art, and architecture influenced by Greco-Roman tradition, but unique in its identity.

The term 'Byzantine' was coined in the 16th century for differentiation from the Western Roman Empire.
Terminology lacks a consensus among historians; some use 330 for Constantinople's foundation, others use events like the fall of Western Roman Empire in 476 or the conquest of Constantinople in 1453.

Location: Strategic position at the Golden Horn controlled trade routes between Europe and Asia.
Construction included Theodosian Walls for defense, making it one of the richest and most influential cities of the medieval period.

The emperor or basileus ruled absolutely; was also military commander, head of the church, and finance guardian.
Succession often followed dynastic lines without strict rules, with emperors legitimizing their rule through divine right and symbols of power.

Government modeled after imperial Rome but lacked an aristocratic class; positions acquired through patronage.
Key officials: senators, quaestors, comes sacrarum largitionum, and military governors (strategoi).
Creation of the Corpus Juris Civilis (Justinian Code) simplified law and had long-lasting influence on legal systems.

Class distinctions based on family name, wealth, and land ownership; movement between classes was possible.
The nobility was fluid due to favoritism from emperors and social changes.

Women's roles varied by social class, with aristocratic women managing homes and lower-class women often working alongside men.

The empire's borders fluctuated due to military victories and losses, with significant territories in Egypt, Syria, and Palestine.
Key historical events include successful defensive campaigns against the Persians and Arab expansion, as well as reconquests under Justinian I.
Gradual decline began after Battle of Manzikert (1071) and significant losses following the Fourth Crusade in 1204.

Christianity shaped Byzantine culture, with the Patriarch of Constantinople leading the Church.
The schism between Eastern and Western Christianity and icon debates illustrate the ecclesiastical conflicts within the empire.

Shift from classical naturalism to abstract, with a focus on religious representation, particularly icons and mosaics.
Icons served as a medium to connect viewers with the divine; significant for liturgical and personal use.

Byzantine architecture featured domed structures and impressive churches like Hagia Sophia.
Use of classical elements, along with local innovations, influenced the design of many Christian churches throughout history.

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