What is Theophanes Continuatus?

Theophanes Continuatus is the commonly applied Latin name for a collection of historical writings preserved in an 11th-century manuscript. It functions as a continuation of the Chronicle of Theophanes the Confessor, covering a later period of Byzantine history.

What are the alternative names given to Theophanes Continuatus?

The collection of historical writings is also known by the Latin name Scriptores post Theophanem, which translates to "those after Theophanes" in English.

What specific historical period does Theophanes Continuatus cover?

Theophanes Continuatus covers the historical period spanning from the year 813 AD to 961 AD.

From which earlier historical work does Theophanes Continuatus take its name?

Theophanes Continuatus takes its name from its role as a continuation of the Chronicle of Theophanes the Confessor, which chronicles events from 285 AD up to 813 AD.

In what form is Theophanes Continuatus preserved?

Theophanes Continuatus is preserved within an 11th-century manuscript identified as Vat. gr. 167.

How does the writing style of Theophanes Continuatus differ from that of Theophanes the Confessor?

The manuscript of Theophanes Continuatus contains four distinct works that differ significantly in style and form from the annalistic approach characteristic of Theophanes the Confessor's Chronicle.

What does the first work within Theophanes Continuatus comprise?

The first work consists of four books that are structured as a series of biographies detailing the reigns of Byzantine emperors from 813 AD to 867 AD.

Which Byzantine emperors are featured in the biographies of the first work of Theophanes Continuatus?

The biographies in the first work of Theophanes Continuatus cover the emperors from Leo the Armenian through Michael III.

Who commissioned the biographies that make up the first work of Theophanes Continuatus?

The biographies within the first work of Theophanes Continuatus were commissioned by Emperor Constantine VII, who reigned from 913 to 959 AD.

What perspective is reflected in the biographies of the first work of Theophanes Continuatus?

Given that they were commissioned by Emperor Constantine VII, the biographies in the first work of Theophanes Continuatus reflect the point of view of the ruling Macedonian dynasty.

What sources are believed to have been used by the author of the first work of Theophanes Continuatus?

The author of the first work of Theophanes Continuatus is thought to have utilized the same historical sources as Joseph Genesios, another Byzantine historian.

What is the title of the second work included in the collection of Theophanes Continuatus?

The second work within the collection is known by the Latin title Vita Basilii.

What is the English translation of the Latin title Vita Basilii?

The Latin title Vita Basilii translates to "Life of Basil" in English.

Who is the subject of the Vita Basilii?

The Vita Basilii is a biography focused on Emperor Basil I the Macedonian, who reigned as Byzantine Emperor from 867 to 886 AD.

Who authored the Vita Basilii?

The Vita Basilii was written by Emperor Constantine VII, who was the grandson of Basil I.

Approximately when was the Vita Basilii likely written?

The Vita Basilii was likely written around the year 950 AD.

What is the primary genre or nature of the Vita Basilii?

The Vita Basilii is characterized as essentially a panegyric, meaning it is a work intended to praise its subject.

What was the purpose of writing the Vita Basilii?

The Vita Basilii was written to praise Basil I and his reign, while also vilifying his predecessor, Michael III.

What historical period does the third work in Theophanes Continuatus cover?

The third work in Theophanes Continuatus provides a history covering the years from 886 AD to 948 AD.

How does the third work relate to the history written by Symeon Logothetes?

The third work is noted for being very close in both its form and content to the history compiled by Symeon Logothetes.

What does the final section of the third work of Theophanes Continuatus achieve?

The final section of the third work extends the historical narrative, continuing the account until the year 961 AD.

Who is identified as the probable author of the third work in Theophanes Continuatus?

The third work in Theophanes Continuatus is believed to have been written by Theodore Daphnopates.

When was the third work of Theophanes Continuatus likely completed?

The third work was likely completed shortly before the year 963 AD.

What is the primary scholarly reference cited for information on Theophanes Continuatus?

The primary scholarly reference cited is the Oxford Dictionary of Byzantium, edited by Alexander Kazhdan and published in 1991.

What is the ISBN for the 1991 edition of the Oxford Dictionary of Byzantium?

The ISBN for the 1991 edition of the Oxford Dictionary of Byzantium is 978-0-19-504652-6.

What is the title of the publication edited and translated by I. Ševčenko in the CFHB series?

The publication edited and translated by I. Ševčenko, part of the CFHB 42 series, is titled Chronographiae Quae Theophanis Continuati Nomine Fertur Liber Quo Vita Basilii Imperatoris Amplectitur.

What specific content is found in the CFHB 42 publication by I. Ševčenko?

The CFHB 42 publication contains the Life of Basil I, presented in both Greek and English on facing pages.

Who are the editors of the CFHB 53 publication concerning Theophanes Continuatus?

The CFHB 53 publication, which covers Books I-IV of Theophanes Continuatus, was edited by Michael Featherstone and Juan Signes-Codoñer.

What languages are utilized in the CFHB 53 publication of Theophanes Continuatus?

The CFHB 53 publication presents the text of Theophanes Continuatus in Greek and English on facing pages, and includes commentary and notes in both English and Latin.

What is the subject matter of the CFHB 58 publication of Theophanes Continuatus?

The CFHB 58 publication focuses on Liber VI of Theophanes Continuatus, providing the text in Greek and English on facing pages, along with commentary and notes in English.

Who are the editors responsible for the CFHB 58 publication of Theophanes Continuatus?

Michael Featherstone and Juan Signes Codoñer are the editors of the CFHB 58 publication, which covers Liber VI of Theophanes Continuatus.

What topic is explored in J. Signes Codoñer's 1995 publication?

J. Signes Codoñer's 1995 publication, titled El periodo del Segundo Iconoclasmo en Theophanes Continuatus, focuses on the period of the Second Iconoclasm as depicted in the work.

What historical aspect of Theophanes Continuatus is examined in P. Yannopoulos's 2000 article?

P. Yannopoulos's 2000 article, published in Byzantion, is titled "Les vicissitudes historiques de la Chronique de Thèophane" and investigates the historical developments and changes related to the Chronicle of Theophanes.

What is the title and origin of the 1838 publication of Theophanes Continuatus mentioned in the external links?

The 1838 publication, originating from E. Weber in Bonn, is titled Theophanes continuatus, Joannes Cameniata, Symeon Magister, Georgius Monachus... and was edited by Immanuel Bekker.

Who provides an online version or resource for Theophanes Continuatus?

Paul Stephenson offers an online resource for Theophanes Continuatus, accessible through his website.

What is the function of the 'Byzantine historians' navbox found in the text?

The 'Byzantine historians' navbox serves as a navigational aid, listing prominent Byzantine historians categorized by the century in which they were active.

Can you name some Byzantine historians from the 5th century mentioned in the provided text?

Yes, Byzantine historians from the 5th century listed include Annianus of Alexandria, Eunapius, John Rufus, Malchus, Olympiodorus of Thebes, Panodorus of Alexandria, Philostorgius, Priscus, Sabinus of Heraclea, Socrates of Constantinople, Sozomen, and Theodoret.

Which Byzantine historians active in the 6th century are listed in the text?

The 6th century is represented by historians such as Agathias, Cyril of Scythopolis, Eustathius of Epiphania, Evagrius Scholasticus, Hesychius of Miletus, John Diakrinomenos, John of Ephesus, John of Epiphania, Pseudo-Joshua the Stylite, Pseudo-Zacharias Rhetor, Jordanes, John Malalas, Liberatus of Carthage, Marcellinus Comes, Menander Protector, Nonnosus, Peter the Patrician, Procopius, Theodorus Lector, Theophanes of Byzantium, Zacharias Rhetor, and Zosimus.

Who are the Byzantine historians identified as active during the 7th century?

The Byzantine historians listed for the 7th century are John of Antioch, Trajan the Patrician, and Theophylact Simocatta.

Which Byzantine historian is specifically mentioned as active in the 8th century?

Hippolytus of Thebes is the Byzantine historian specifically mentioned as active in the 8th century within the provided list.

Who are the historians listed as active during the 9th century?

The historians listed for the 9th century include Theophanes the Confessor, George Syncellus, Nikephoros I of Constantinople, George Hamartolos, and the anonymous Scriptor Incertus.

Can you name some Byzantine historians from the 10th century mentioned in the text?

Some Byzantine historians from the 10th century mentioned are Constantine VII, Joseph Genesius, John Kaminiates, Leo the Deacon, Pseudo-Simeon, Symeon Logothete, and Theophanes Continuatus itself.

Who are the Byzantine historians associated with the 11th century in the provided list?

The 11th century historians listed are Michael Attaleiates, George Kedrenos, Michael Psellos, John Skylitzes, John Xiphilinus, and Yahya of Antioch.

Which historians are noted for their work in the 12th century?

The historians noted for their work in the 12th century include Nikephoros Bryennios the Younger, Niketas Choniates, Eustathius of Thessalonica, Michael Glykas, Anna Komnene, John Kinnamos, Constantine Manasses, and Joannes Zonaras.

Who are the Byzantine historians from the 13th century mentioned in the text?

The Byzantine historians from the 13th century mentioned in the text are George Akropolites and Theodore Skoutariotes.

Which historians are listed as active during the 14th century?

The historians listed as active during the 14th century are Nicephorus Gregoras, Nikephoros Kallistos Xanthopoulos, John VI Kantakouzenos, George Pachymeres, and Michael Panaretos.

Can you name some Byzantine historians from the 15th century mentioned in the text?

Some Byzantine historians from the 15th century mentioned include John Anagnostes, John Cananus, Laonikos Chalkokondyles, Michael Critobulus, Doukas, George Sphrantzes, and Pseudo-George Kodinos.

What is the significance of the Vat. gr. 167 manuscript in relation to Theophanes Continuatus?

The Vat. gr. 167 manuscript is significant because it is the specific 11th-century manuscript in which the collection of historical writings known as Theophanes Continuatus is preserved.

What does the term 'Scriptores post Theophanem' mean in the context of Byzantine historiography?

Scriptores post Theophanem, meaning 'those after Theophanes,' refers to historical writings that continue the narrative or cover periods subsequent to the chronicle written by Theophanes the Confessor.

What is the relationship between Emperor Constantine VII and the Vita Basilii?

Emperor Constantine VII commissioned the Vita Basilii and also authored it. This work is a biography of his grandfather, Basil I, written around 950 AD.

How did the Macedonian dynasty's influence shape the content of the first work in Theophanes Continuatus?

The first work, comprising imperial biographies from 813-867, was commissioned by Emperor Constantine VII, and as such, it reflects the perspective and viewpoint of the ruling Macedonian dynasty.

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Understanding Theophanes Continuatus

Defining the Work

Theophanes Continuatus, also known by its Latin appellation Scriptores post Theophanem (meaning "those after Theophanes"), represents a significant compilation of historical narratives. This collection is preserved within the 11th-century manuscript Vat. gr. 167. Its primary function is to extend the historical chronicle initiated by Theophanes the Confessor, which originally spanned the period from 285 to 813 AD. The Continuatus, in turn, covers the subsequent era from 813 to 961 AD, offering a crucial bridge in Byzantine historical documentation.^[1]

Stylistic Divergence

A key characteristic of the Theophanes Continuatus is its departure from the annalistic style employed by its predecessor, Theophanes the Confessor. The manuscript is structured into four distinct works, each exhibiting unique stylistic and formal attributes. These narratives often lean towards biographical accounts and more elaborate prose, providing a different lens through which to view the events of the 9th and 10th centuries.^[2]

Manuscript Composition

Four Distinct Narratives

The compilation known as Theophanes Continuatus is not a monolithic text but rather a composite work comprising four separate historical accounts. These works were brought together, likely during the 10th century, to form a continuous historical record extending the earlier chronicle.

Imperial Biographies (813-867)

The initial section of the Continuatus consists of four books dedicated to the biographies of emperors who reigned from 813 to 867 AD. This period encompasses the reigns of figures such as Leo the Armenian and Michael III. These biographies were commissioned by Emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus (913-959), a member of the Macedonian dynasty. Consequently, they tend to reflect the political perspective and ideological framework of the ruling Macedonian house.^[2] The author of this segment likely utilized similar source materials as the contemporary historian Joseph Genesios.

The Life of Basil I

The second major component is the Vita Basilii, which translates to "Life of Basil." This work is a biography of Emperor Basil I the Macedonian (reigned 867-886), the founder of the Macedonian dynasty. It was likely composed by his grandson, Constantine VII, around 950 AD. The Vita Basilii is characterized as a panegyric, meaning it serves to praise and glorify Basil and his reign. In doing so, it also actively vilifies his predecessor, Michael III, thereby reinforcing the legitimacy and virtue of the new dynasty.^[3]

Narrative Scope and Authorship

Later Byzantine History

The third part of the collection presents a history covering the years 886 to 948 AD. This narrative is notably similar in both form and content to the history written by Symeon Logothetes. The final segment of the Continuatus extends this historical account, bringing the narrative up to the year 961 AD. Scholarly consensus suggests that this concluding portion may have been authored by Theodore Daphnopates, likely completed shortly before 963 AD.^[4]

Authorship and Patronage

Imperial Commission

The compilation and content of the Theophanes Continuatus are deeply intertwined with the patronage of Emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus. His commissioning of the imperial biographies covering the period 813-867 AD underscores a deliberate effort to shape the historical narrative in favor of the Macedonian dynasty, which he represented. This patronage ensured that the historical accounts reflected the dynasty's perspective and legitimized its rise to power.

Scholarly Attribution

While the Vita Basilii is explicitly attributed to Constantine VII, the authorship of other sections is based on scholarly analysis. The close resemblance of the third work to the history of Symeon Logothetes suggests a connection or shared source material. The final continuation up to 961 AD is tentatively attributed to Theodore Daphnopates, a figure known for his involvement in Byzantine intellectual circles during the mid-10th century.

Historical Context and Preservation

The Manuscript Tradition

The historical significance of Theophanes Continuatus is amplified by its preservation in a specific manuscript: Vat. gr. 167. This codex, dating from the 11th century, serves as the primary repository for this collection of historical works. The existence of this manuscript is crucial for modern scholars seeking to study and interpret the events and perspectives recorded within these Byzantine texts.

Evolution of Byzantine Historiography

The stylistic differences between the Continuatus and the original chronicle of Theophanes the Confessor highlight the evolving nature of historical writing within the Byzantine Empire. The shift from a more concise, annalistic approach to detailed biographies and narrative histories reflects changing literary tastes and the increasing importance placed on the lives and actions of individual rulers and the dynastic legacy.

Enduring Significance and Further Study

Importance in Byzantine Studies

Theophanes Continuatus remains an indispensable primary source for understanding the political, social, and cultural dynamics of the Byzantine Empire during the 9th and 10th centuries. Its detailed accounts, particularly the imperial biographies and the Vita Basilii, offer invaluable insights into the reigns of key emperors and the consolidation of the Macedonian dynasty's power. Its unique perspective and narrative style make it a cornerstone for scholars of Byzantine historiography.

Scholarly Resources

For those seeking to delve deeper into the study of Theophanes Continuatus, several scholarly resources are available. Critical editions and translations provide access to the original Greek texts alongside English interpretations, facilitating comprehensive analysis. These resources are essential for advanced academic research into Byzantine history.

Chronographiae Quae Theophanis Continuati Nomine Fertur Liber Quo Vita Basilii Imperatoris Amplectitur, edited & translated into English by I. Ševčenko (CFHB 42, Berlin, 2011).
Chronographiae Quae Theophanis Continuati Nomine Fertur Libri I-IV: recensuerunt anglice verterunt indicibus instruxerunt Michael Featherstone et Juan Signes-Codoñer, nuper repertis schedis Caroli de Boor adiuvantibus (CFHB 53, Berlin, 2015).
Chronographiae quae Theophanis Continuati nomine fertur Liber VI: Recensuerunt anglice verterunt indicibus instruxerunt Michael Featherstone et Juan Signes Codoñer (CFBH 58, Berlin/Boston 2025).
Codoñer, J. Signes. El periodo del Segundo Iconoclasmo en Theophanes Continuatus. Amsterdam, 1995.
Yannopoulos, P. "Les vicissitudes historiques de la Chronique de Thèophane." Byzantion 70 (2000). pp. 527–53.

External Connections

Further exploration of the text and its context can be facilitated through external academic resources. These links provide access to digitized versions of the text and scholarly commentary, offering a broader perspective on its place within Byzantine historiography.

Digitized edition of Theophanes Continuatus (Bonn, 1838) (opens in new tab)
Paul Stephenson's translation and commentary (opens in new tab)

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References

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Echoes of Empire

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Understanding Theophanes Continuatus ℹ️

🏛️ Defining the Work

📜 Stylistic Divergence

Manuscript Composition 🧩

📚 Four Distinct Narratives

👑 Imperial Biographies (813-867)

✍️ The Life of Basil I

Narrative Scope and Authorship 📖

⏳ Later Byzantine History

Authorship and Patronage ✍️

👑 Imperial Commission

🧐 Scholarly Attribution

Historical Context and Preservation ⏳

🏛️ The Manuscript Tradition

🔄 Evolution of Byzantine Historiography

Enduring Significance and Further Study 🌟

💡 Importance in Byzantine Studies

📖 Scholarly Resources

🔗 External Connections

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📜 Important Notice Regarding Content

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding Theophanes Continuatus

Defining the Work

Stylistic Divergence

Manuscript Composition

Four Distinct Narratives

Imperial Biographies (813-867)

The Life of Basil I

Narrative Scope and Authorship

Later Byzantine History

Authorship and Patronage

Imperial Commission

Scholarly Attribution

Historical Context and Preservation

The Manuscript Tradition

Evolution of Byzantine Historiography

Enduring Significance and Further Study

Importance in Byzantine Studies

Scholarly Resources

External Connections

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Content