"Justinian&Theodora-6th Cent Byzantine Rulers" Dr Rietveld-Zoom Talk-May 14

"Justinian & Theodora-6th Century Byzantine Emperor & Empress" Zoom talk with Dr James Rietveld-Thurs, May 14, 2026, 8pm

History buffs, join us for professor Dr. James Rietveld's Zoom talk "Justinian and Theodora-6th Century Byzantine Emperor and Empress" for Ipso Facto on Thursday, May 14, 8 pm.

Pay What You Wish. Sorry no refunds.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1987373911869
Emperor Justinian (527 to 565 AD) ruled Byzantium with his wife, Theodora who exercised considerable influence as augusta, but not co-regent, yet her superior intelligence and deft handling of political affairs caused many to think that it was she who ruled.
Theodora's colorful past as an actress meant that special legislation to be passed to allow her to marry Justinian.
She proved to be such an asset to the realm that when two rival political factions led an opposition to the government and set up a rival emperor, Theodora advised Justinian not to flee as his advisors recommended, but to stay and save his empire. The result was an epic win, with Justinian’s general dealing the final blow by herding the rioters into the Hippodrome to cut them to pieces.
Theodora is remembered as one of the first rulers to recognize the rights of women, and ending persecution of the Monophysites, of which she was a pratictioner.
Justinian, born of peasant stock, arose to power thanks to a high ranking uncle who ensured that he received a good education. Justinian eventually was adopted by emporer Justin, served as co-emperor and after Justin's death, ascended to the throne.
He was notable for his administrative reorganization of the imperial government,as a legislator, and for his sponsorship of a codification of laws, the Codex.
Genuinely concerned with promoting the well-being of his subjects, he rooted out corruption and provided them accessible justice.
Justinian was known for public works eg. building aqueducts, bridges, rebuilding cities devastated by earthquakes, monasteries, orphanages, hostels, churches such as Hagia Sophia, fortifications and defenses.
He also considered it his duty to regain previously lost provinces, and engaged in several wars, followed by truces and treaties.
He launched a succesful attack on north Africa and brought it under his control, yet he was plagued by constant attacks on the northern frontier in the Balkans, by barbarians.
Both Justinian and Theodora are saints in the Eastern Orthodox Church, with his history of promoting good government of the church and upholding orthodox teaching, but also directing actions against paganism.

This lecture will be posted on the Dr. James Rietveld Salon Lecture You Tube channel, where you can also watch previous lectures: dr.jamesrietveldsalonlectu2903

Dr. James Rietveld is a professor at CSU, Fullerton and Cal Poly Pomona, CA of History, Anthropology, Religion with a PHD from Claremont School of Religion, is author of two books, and can be seen on History channel's "Crazy Rich Ancients."