Leo VI and the Transformation of Byzantine Christian Identity: Writings of an Unexpected Emperor

The book analyzes Leo VI's literary output, focusing on his deployment of ideological principles and religious obligations to distinguish the Christian oikoumene from the Islamic caliphate. It also examines his 113 legislative Novels, showing how his religious sensibilities shaped the legal code.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 239 pages
\n Publication date: 22 July 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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The Byzantine emperor Leo VI, who ruled from 886 to 912, stood in stark contrast to his predecessors as a scholar rather than a general or soldier. His unique distinction stemmed from the religious education he received under the guidance of the patriarch Photios. This book delves into Leo's literary output, specifically examining his utilization of ideological principles and religious obligations to differentiate the Christian oikoumene from the Islamic caliphate. It also provides a comprehensive analysis of his 113 legislative Novels, focusing on their theological prolegomena. Through this examination, it becomes evident how Leo's religious sensibilities shaped his reformation of the legal code to align it more closely with Byzantine canon law.

Meredith L. D. Riedel makes a compelling argument that Leo's religious faith had a profound impact on Byzantine cultural identity and influenced his successors. This transformation led to the establishment of the Macedonian dynasty as a period of unparalleled glory in Byzantium. Leo's legacy continues to resonate through the ages, as his contributions to the religious and legal realms left an indelible mark on the history of the Byzantine Empire.

\n Weight: 354g\n
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781107662575\n \n