Best Books On The Byzantine Empire Reddit

Byzantine Buzz: Reddit's Top Picks for Empire Enthusiasts

Ever found yourself daydreaming about emperors, mosaics, and sieges? You're not alone. The Byzantine Empire, that often-overlooked period between the fall of Rome and the rise of the Ottomans, has a dedicated following. And where do these history buffs hang out? Why, Reddit, of course!

Reddit's r/byzantine community is a treasure trove of information and recommendations. So, grab your coffee (or tea, no judgment here), and let's dive into the best books on the Byzantine Empire, as voted by the Reddit crowd.

For the Newbie: Byzantium: The Surprising Life of a Medieval Empire by Judith Herrin

Starting a new topic can be daunting, but Herrin's book is like that cool history teacher who makes complex subjects accessible. It's a great starting point, covering the empire's 1,000-year history in an engaging way. Plus, it's got a fun fact on every page - did you know the Byzantines invented the first form of recorded music?

For the Strategist: The Byzantine Army, 886-1118 by Jonathan Harris

If you're into military history, this is your jam. Harris delves into the Byzantine army's organization, tactics, and weapons. It's like a medieval strategy guide, complete with diagrams. Just don't try to recreate the Varangian Guard's battle cry at your next dinner party.

For the Culture Vulture: The Byzantine Achievement by Cyril Mango

Art, architecture, literature - Mango covers it all. This book is a visual feast, filled with stunning images of Byzantine art. It's like a museum tour in book form. Just try not to drool on the pages.

For the Intrigue-Lover: The Byzantine Empire by John Julius Norwich

Palace intrigues, power struggles, and religious debates - Norwich serves up the drama. It's like Game of Thrones, but with more theological debates and fewer dragons. Plus, it's got a great audiobook narration, perfect for your next commute.

History Stacks Presents: Byzantine Empire (link in comments) : r/byzantium

Beyond the Books

Reddit users also recommend exploring Byzantine art and architecture in person, if you can. Istanbul, in particular, is a goldmine of Byzantine history. And if you're stuck at home, there are plenty of virtual tours and online resources to explore.

But why stop at books and tours? Why not bring a bit of Byzantium into your daily life? Try cooking some Byzantine-inspired dishes (yes, they had their own version of pizza), or incorporate some Byzantine art into your home decor. You might find that a little bit of the Byzantine Empire can make your daily grind a little more interesting.

So, there you have it - Reddit's top picks for Byzantine enthusiasts. Whether you're a history newbie or a seasoned emperor, there's something here for everyone. Happy reading, and remember - next time you're stuck in traffic, just think, "At least I'm not under siege in Constantinople."