Concise historical introduction to Byzantine Christianity and its continuing influence on the world and how we see it

‘. . . I have sailed the seas and come To the holy city of Byzantium.’ W. B. Yeats From the foundation of Constantinople in 330 to its fall in 1453, this brief history explores the key components of Byzantine Christianity, including the development of monasticism, icons and iconoclasm, the role of the emperor in relation to church councils and beliefs, the difficult relationship with the papacy and the impact of the Crusades. The book also considers Byzantine Christianity as a living force today: the variety and vitality of Orthodox churches, the role of the Church in Russia and the enduring relevance of a spirituality derived from the church fathers.

"Averil Cameron’s work has transformed our understanding of Byzantium, and here she offers an authoritative survey of its history and legacy . . . This is a lucid, informative and impressively wide-ranging brief history." - Gillian Clark FBA, Emeritus Professor of Classics and Ancient History, University of Bristol

"An excellent, lucid account of a complex topic" - Professor Elizabeth M. Jeffreys, Exeter College

"These books have been written by recognised scholars who combine academic rigour, a focus on specific questions, and clear explanation. They introduce us to the findings of modern scholarship and help us to understand more of the life and faith of the classical world." - Church Times