This episode explores the historical reality and myths surrounding the sieges of Constantinople, focusing specifically on the events of 670 and 717 AD. Against the backdrop of the ongoing conflicts between the Byzantine Empire and the Umayyad Caliphate, the podcast investigates the reliability of historical sources, particularly Theophanes the Confessor's chronicle, which is found to contain exaggerations and conflicting accounts. More significantly, the narrative delves into the composition and deployment of Greek Fire, a medieval incendiary weapon, highlighting its technological sophistication and psychological impact. For instance, the podcast discusses the role of naphtha and quicklime in the weapon's creation and its use as a naval weapons system. The episode then shifts to the 717 siege, detailing the political maneuvering of Emperor Leo III, who used deception and strategic alliances to secure his position and ultimately repel the siege. The podcast concludes by contrasting the historical accounts from Byzantine and Arabic sources, revealing how legends and myths have shaped our understanding of these pivotal events, highlighting the complexities of interpreting early medieval history.
