Global Byzantium: Papers from the Fiftieth Spring Symposium of Byzantine Studies

Global Byzantium is a recasting and expansion of the old 'Byzantium and its neighbors' theme, with a methodological twist away from the political and toward the cultural and economic. It also endorses comparative methodology, the importance of the local, and the empires strategic geographical location. It was a crucial intermediary between Europe, Africa, and Asia, holding the Christian world together and being a critical transit point between the various Islamic polities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Global Byzantium is a fascinating and innovative approach to studying the Byzantine Empire and its neighbors. It takes a methodological twist away from the traditional political focus and towards the cultural and economic aspects of the empire. This shift allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the complex and multifaceted empire.

One of the key concepts of Global Byzantium is comparative methodology. This approach emphasizes the importance of comparing different regions and cultures within the Byzantine Empire and its neighbors. It seeks to understand how these regions interacted and influenced each other, rather than simply viewing them as separate entities.

Another important issue that Global Byzantium addresses is cultural capital. In the past, it was common to define Byzantium as culturally superior to Western Christian Europe. However, this concept has been increasingly criticized, and a more nuanced approach is emerging. Global Byzantium recognizes the importance of comparing different cultures and not making blanket statements about superiority or inferiority.

The importance of the local is also critical in understanding the Byzantine Empire. We need to explore what the Byzantines saw when they looked out at their world, and what others saw when they looked in at Byzantium. This will help us to better understand the empire's impact on global culture and society.

Finally, Global Byzantium considers the empire's strategic geographical location. The Byzantine Empire was a crucial intermediary between Europe, Africa, and Asia, and it played a significant role in the transmission of culture, ideas, and technology. Its location between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea made it a vital transit point for trade and travel.

In conclusion, Global Byzantium is a valuable and innovative approach to studying the Byzantine Empire and its neighbors. It emphasizes the importance of comparative methodology, cultural capital, the local, and the empire's strategic geographical location. By exploring these issues, Global Byzantium provides a deeper understanding of the Byzantine Empire and its role in shaping the world we live in today.

Weight: 830g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032270197