Michael I Rhangkabes: Proimion and Chapter I of the Synopsis of History by John Skylitzes

Translated from Greek

Abstract

This translation of the proemium and first chapter of the «Synopsis, or Review of Histories» (Greek: «Σύνοψις Ἱστοριῶν») by the 11th — early 12th-century Byzantine historian John Skylitzes is offered to Russian-speaking readers. This work represents an important source for the study of Byzantine political history of the 9th–11th centuries. Michael I Rhangkabes, a key figure in this work, is presented within the context of the political struggles and sociopolitical changes of his time.