Procopius

Writing in the 6th century CE, Procopius is best known as the leading historian of the age of Emperor Justinian I. He was probably born at Caesarea in Palestine and served as legal adviser and secretary to the great general Belisarius, a role that gave him close access to imperial campaigns and court politics.

His most important works include the Wars, a detailed history of Justinian’s military campaigns; Buildings, which praises the emperor’s construction projects; and the Secret History, a far more hostile portrait of Justinian, Empress Theodora, and leading figures of the court. Taken together, these books make him one of the most valuable — and most debated — sources for the Byzantine world.

Because he wrote from inside the empire’s ruling circle while also revealing deep bitterness toward it, Procopius remains fascinating to modern readers. His books are still read not only for their historical detail, but also for the tension between official public history and private judgment that runs through his work.