Description
Book SynopsisThis book evaluates the life and empire of the pivotal yet controversial and poorly understood Byzantine emperor Heraclius (AD 610641), a contemporary of the Prophet Muhammad. His stormy reign is critical for understanding the background to fundamental changes in the Middle East and Balkans, including the emergence of Islam.
Trade Review'Kaegi offers a comprehensive and lucid analysis of Roman and Persian relationships in the early seventh century … Kaegi's study usefully fills out an all too common gap in modern perceptions of early medieval history.' The Times Literary Supplement
'Kaegi is a master of his sources and this biography will provide the starting point for future serious study of the emperor.' History Today
'Kaegi brings his broad knowledge of Eastern sources to this biography, the first in English.' Judith Herrin, BBC History
'… a compelling assessment of an extraordinary reign.' Journal of Ecclesiastical History
Table of ContentsList of maps; List of figures; Acknowledgements; List of abbreviations; Introduction; 1. Armenia and Africa: the formative years; 2. Internal and external challenges in the first decade of the reign; 3. Taking the offensive; 4. Peril and hope; 5. The invasion of Mesopotamia; 6. Five crucial years: a narrow window of opportunity; 7. Tested again; 8. Losing control; 9. Conclusions; Chronological table; Bibliography; Index.
