The Secret History

Procopius's 'Secret History' is a controversial 6th-century historical work that starkly contrasts with his more diplomatic 'Military Histories' and 'Edifices'. This candid account, written by the Byzantine historian, exposes the true nature of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora's tyrannical and corrupt reign. It delves into the political climate of Constantinople, the influence of factions, and the moral failings of key figures like General Belisarius and Antonina. The work offers a scathing critique of Justinian and Theodora's extreme avarice, political oppression, and systematic exploitation of the Roman populace. It details their ruthless confiscation of wealth, imposition of arbitrary taxes, manipulation of the legal system, and neglect of public infrastructure. The author highlights their persecution of religious minorities (Montanists, Samaritans, Arians, Gentiles, Jews) and other groups, leading to widespread suffering, famine, forced emigration, and death. The 'Secret History' also covers their mismanagement of military affairs, resulting in barbarian incursions and the ruin of soldiers and landowners, and their debasement of public offices and trade for personal gain. Procopius portrays Justinian as a hypocritical liar who manipulated laws and religious matters to consolidate power, disregarding Roman traditions and imposing an autocratic court protocol. The text underscores the challenges of historical truth-telling under tyranny and questions the future of the Roman Empire under such rule.