The Byzantine Empire

Geography and Constantinople Constantinople’s location on the Bosporus, made it a center for trade with Europe, Asia and Africa. –Trade by sea and by land made Constantinople rich! Constantinople, on a peninsula was easily defended. –Protected by the sea on 3 sides –Strong navy and a chain across the harbor –A huge wall protected the city on it’s only land side

Byzantine Culture Byzantine Culture was influenced by others –Roman influences: Roman buildings, palaces, Hippodrome, Laws, Emperors, Bread and Circuses, etc. –Greek influences: Language and arts, philosophy, etc. –Other influences: Egyptian, Syrian, Arab, Persian, Slavs, etc.

Emperor Justinian Justinian’s Conquests –Attempts to re-unite Roman Empire –_________________ - General who lead the army and reorganized the army, relying on cavalry and using armor, bows and lances –Conquered much land (see page 329) –After Justinian’s Death, the Empire didn’t have the money to hold onto much of the territories he had conquered.

Justinian’s Law Code Justinian reformed and simplified the laws ________________ was the legal scholar who helped Justinian create the Justinian Code. The Justinian code was a great influence on the laws of Europe.

Theodora Empress – helped run the empire –Chose officials –Gave women rights – own land –During the Nika riots, Theodora saved the throne! She urged Justinian to stay and fight!

Byzantine Civilization The Byzantine civilization lasted _______ years. Byzantines preserved Greek culture and Roman law and spread ______________ in Eastern Europe. Because of the flourishing trade, the Byzantines were rich and built public buildings. –The ___________________ was a beautiful church. –Mosaics showing saints

Byzantine Women Marriage, family, and religion was important Most women stayed home and cared for families Some women were educated and interested in politics. Some served as _______________ (people who stand in for a young or ill leader)

Byzantine Education Learning was important; Scholars were valued Boys were schooled in religion, medicine, law, arithmetic, and grammar. Some boys and girls were tutored. Scholars wrote about religion and copied and passed on writings of the ancient Greeks and Romans.