Michael Angold

Michael Angold's book is a clear, concise and authoritative history of the successor state to the Roman Empire, known as the Byzantine Empire. It was named after Byzantium, which Emperor Constantine I rebuilt in 330 AD as Constantinople and made the capital of the entire Roman Empire. Angold begins in the heart of Byzantium, the city of Constantinople from which a new Empire emerged. He shows how the foundation and growth of the city altered the balance of the Roman empire, shifting the show more centre of gravity east. He describes the emergence of political factions and their impact on political life and traces the rise of Islam. Angold concludes his book by stressing the continuing attraction and influence of imperial Byzantium, best seen in Norman Sicily. show less

Good short introduction to the Byzantine world. Exploring material culture and architecture as well as political history. Not always an easy read and perhaps some bias, but still useful academic work.

A detailed study of the institutions of the state after the loss of Constantinople, not a narrative history. The period also covers the beginning of the Palaeologus dynasty. Therefore there is not much on the international relations with either the Latins, Seljuks, or Bulgarians. It is quite useful within the limits of the intention.

lots of good information, not easy to read.