Theodora and Justinian: Partners in Ruling the Byzantine Empire

Theodora and Justinian: Partners in Ruling the Byzantine Empire

This 5 page report discusses one of the ancient world's most renowned leaders, the Byzantine emperor, Justinian (483-565). Historians have often referred to him in some variation on the theme of "the last of the great Roman emperors." His wife, the Empress Theodora, became known for her ravishing beauty as well as her ruthless manner and haughty disposition despite her early years as an actress and "dancing girl." Theodora and Justinian personify what has come to be known as something of an archetype regarding the way the ancient and near ancient kingdoms and empires were once ruled. The person gaining the throne through birth, usually a male, was balanced and complemented by his (or her) partner in terms of actually ruling. Bibliography lists 6 sources.

2. Romanesque Art

The contributions of Marilyn Stokstad are noted in this 8 page paper that focuses on the Romanesque style. The only source for this analysis is her 1988 book Medieval Art in which she focuses on history in interpreting the evolution of various art periods. The roots of Romanesque art are discussed, which include such influences as the Carolingian, Ottonian and Byzantine styles.

3. Early Law / The Rights Of A Patron

A 5 page paper discussing the relationship between the Digest that was part of the Corpus Iuris Civilis ordered recorded by Emperor Justinian of the early Byzantine Empire, c. 534. Only two Articles of the body of civil law of the Empire are examined here (Articles XIV and XV), but their relationship to the evolution of the lord and serf relationship of medieval Europe is clear. Remarkably, they even retain applicability to life today. Ariticles XIV and XV address the rights of the patron and the obedience to parents and patrons required of children who were under the age of majority, which at that time was 25. Bibliography lists 1 source.

4. The Muslims' View of the Crusaders

A 4 page paper discussing the Muslim view at the beginning of the First Crusade. The Crusaders' mission was to regain Jerusalem, the holiest ground of the Christian faith, from the grasp of the Muslims. Though the Muslims had waged a half-hearted holy war against the Byzantine empire, Christian presence in Syria was viewed as just another cause for skirmish between fractious groups until those same Christians began taking Muslim towns and slaughtering Muslim people. Bibliography lists 5 sources.

5. The Development of Government in Europe: 1095-1500

A 5 page paper which discusses the various governmental changes that occurred in all of Europe between 1095 and 1500. The Byzantine Empire and the Middle Ages are briefly discussed. Bibliography