Leo V the Armenian: book II “Synopsis of history” by John Skylitzes

Abstract

John Skylitzes was a Byzantine official (in 1081-1118 under Alexios Komnenos), chronicler and historian of the eleventh - early twelfth centuries, author of one of the most significant works on the history of Byzantium -“Synopsis” or “Review of Histories” (Euvoyii; 'Ioropicov), covering the period from the death of Nicephorus I Genikos in 811 to the overthrow of Michael VI in 1057. “Synopsis” serves as a continuation of an earlier work on the history of Byzantium, the “Selected Chronography” by George Syncellus and Theophanes the Confessor (which Skylitzes speaks about in a rhetorical prologue). There is also a continuation of the “Synopsis” brought to 1079, also attributed to Skylitzes. This work is one of the main sources of information on the Byzantine history of the period of the ninth-eleventh centuries. According to John Skylitzes himself, in his work he sought objectivity and accuracy in describing many significant events and deeds of the rulers of that time. He examines in detail the struggle for power, foreign policy and social movements of that period. In addition, the “Synopsis” contains information about the army, economy and culture of Byzantium. Both foreign and domestic historians have turned to the Synopsis. John Skylitzes is considered one of the most authoritative historians of Byzantium, and his work is an example of chronicle writing of that time. Book Two is dedicated to the reign of Leo V the Armenian (813-820). This translation is intended for a wide range of readers, including students studying the history of Byzantium, the history of the Middle Ages and the history of the Church.

For citation: Khvalkov E.A. Leo V the Armenian: book II “Synopsis of history” by John Skylitzes DOI: 10.51216/2687‑072X_2024_4_236. EDN: LWLTWY // Theological Collection of Tambov Theological Seminary. 2024, no. 4 (29). P. 236–255. (In Russian)