The Secret History

By exposing the perversion, repression, corruption, and injustice at the heart of Justinian's regime, Prokopios' "The Secret History" destroyed forever that emperor's reputation as the great and benevolent ruler of a vast Byzantine state. Faithfully rendered here in blunt and idiomatic English, Prokopios' tell-all is as shocking today as it was in the sixth century. Kaldellis' substantial Introduction addresses, among other topics, the historical background to "The Secret History"; Prokopios' literary style and major themes; and the relationships between Prokopios, Justinian, and Empress Theodora. Maps, genealogies, a glossary, and a selection of related texts (including excerpts from Prokopios' "Wars and Buildings" and several contemporary documents) enhance and support the reading of this scandalous and suspenseful book.