The Secret History - Book Review

The Secret History
By Procopius
Penguin Classics 1966 (G.A Williamson)
Originally written about 550 CE

I should have added 2 names to the lists - Procopius and Xenophon. Those are the great books that I have on my shelf as well as Aristotle. So consider them added - and you can read them as well.

Written in 550 AD, the Secret History is a vicious piece of political backstabbing written by one of the inner circle of Justinian - the Eastern Roman Emperor.

Procopius was a high born Syrian who became adviser to Belisarius, Justinian's most able and successful military commander.

Justinian was married to Theodora, a former prostitute, and Procopius paints them as a couple of Byzantian sluts. Amoral, rootless, capricious, shameless, vulgar and grasping. They were also cruel either physically, in the case of Theodora, or by absention in the case of Justinian. However, like modern day chavs, Procopius does accept that Justinian had the common touch and he comes across as engaging and personable. Theodora too had physical beauty and attraction on her side. The pair are also street smart and politically cunning in a low way.

Originally from the Balkans, the soldier Belisarius rose to prominence in the imperial bodyguard and was advanced to high military command while still in his 20s. He won outstanding success in the war fought with Persia early in Justinian's reign. He further gained the Emperor's confidence through his loyalty during the Nika riots of 532, during which he commanded the massacre of the rioters.

In addition, Belisarius married Antonina, a friend of Empress Theodoras. Antonina, though unfaithful and often embarrassing to him, had great influence at court, which was valuable when Justinian grew suspicious of him. Although Belisarius was never disloyal, Justinian was always fearful that such a popular commander might attempt to seize the throne. Justinian was always receptive to lies and slanders circulated by the general's enemies.

Procopius really digs the dirt about Justinian and Theodora's family histories, their corruption, evil doings and incompetence. Many of the stories are jaw droppers. Do emperors really act like that? Yes the stories are very one sided but in fairness Procopius had already written two official books about Justinian - one concerning his military achievements and one his building programme. This book was written in secret and for publication after Justinian's death. In any case, a balanced account wouldn't be half as much fun.