137. Empress Theodora: Making Heaven on Earth

This episode of the "Empire" podcast interviews Peter Sarris, a professor of Late Antique, Medieval, and Byzantine Studies, about Empress Theodora and her reign with Justinian. The discussion covers Theodora's humble beginnings, her rise to power, and her significant influence on Justinian's legal and religious policies. Specific examples include Theodora's impact on legislation criminalizing rape and her involvement in the Nika riots. The podcast also details the vast extent of the Byzantine Empire during their rule and the challenges they faced, including plague and war. Listeners gain insight into a fascinating historical figure and the complexities of 6th-century Byzantine politics.

Outlines

Part 1: Introduction and Context

Part 2: Theodora's Influence and the Nika Riots

Part 3: Rebuilding and Reconquest

Part 4: Plague, Death, and Legacy

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Empire: World History

Part 1: Introduction and Context

Introduction and Recap of Empress Theodora's Early Life

Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire in the 6th Century

Justinian's Four Priorities and Early Reign

Part 2: Theodora's Influence and the Nika Riots

Theodora's Influence on Legislation and Religious Tolerance

The Nika Riots and Their Aftermath

Part 3: Rebuilding and Reconquest

Rebuilding Constantinople and the Reconquest of the West

Justinian's Western Campaigns and Theodora's Political Involvement

Part 4: Plague, Death, and Legacy

The Plague, Theodora's Death, and Justinian's Later Reign

137. Empress Theodora: Making Heaven on Earth

Empire: World History

Part 1: Introduction and Context

01:29Introduction and Recap of Empress Theodora's Early Life

Introduction and Recap of Empress Theodora's Early Life

03:20Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire in the 6th Century

Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire in the 6th Century

11:37Justinian's Four Priorities and Early Reign

Justinian's Four Priorities and Early Reign

Part 2: Theodora's Influence and the Nika Riots

17:02Theodora's Influence on Legislation and Religious Tolerance

Theodora's Influence on Legislation and Religious Tolerance

24:04The Nika Riots and Their Aftermath

The Nika Riots and Their Aftermath

Part 3: Rebuilding and Reconquest

31:05Rebuilding Constantinople and the Reconquest of the West

Rebuilding Constantinople and the Reconquest of the West

36:17Justinian's Western Campaigns and Theodora's Political Involvement

Justinian's Western Campaigns and Theodora's Political Involvement

Part 4: Plague, Death, and Legacy

44:00The Plague, Theodora's Death, and Justinian's Later Reign

The Plague, Theodora's Death, and Justinian's Later Reign