A cabinet of Byzantine curiosities
An amusing history of incest, insults and idols in Constantinople
Author Anthony Kaldellis Publisher Oxford University Press Price £14 Released Out now
Voltaire called the Byzantine Empire “a worthless collection of miracles, a disgrace for the human mind”. Author Anthony Kaldellis takes a light-hearted approach to the bizarre world of Byzantium, but as a professor of Greek and Latin, we’re confident that he writes about the melting pot of Roman, Hellenistic and Middle Eastern cultures much more reverence than the great philosopher.
Those unfamiliar with the Byzantines should not expect to be caught up to speed as although Kaldellis adopts a zany approach — basking in the bloodshed and wolfing down fermented fish sauce (a local delicacy, apparently) — A Cabinet of Byzantine Curiosities is not a primer for novices who want to learn more. Kaldellis does not provide any details on the empire’s establishment but this oversight is quickly forgotten as you delve deep into a treasure trove of salacious stories and decadent details.
Using sources that he has largely translated himself, the author explores a broad spectrum of strangeness, from the civilisation’s political and religious life to court scandals, favourite games and, of course, its fabled complex bureaucracy — hence the adjective ‘Byzantine’).
One particular anecdote details Emperor Maurikios’ efforts to secure a truce by sending the leader of a nomadic tribe an elephant. Then there is the murder of Konstas II, who was killed by an assailant brandishing a soap dish. Another highlight is the great litany of crimes attributed to Constantine the Great.
All in all, this is an amusing coffee table book that is guaranteed to raise a few smiles and as many eyebrows. However, those looking for deeper stimulation should look elsewhere.