# What Moral Decadence means in The Secret History

> Theodora's early life as a courtesan and her later depraved actions, along with the general licentiousness of the court, illustrate a theme of moral decay at the highest levels of society.

## Explanation

Theodora's early life as a courtesan and her later depraved actions, along with the general licentiousness of the court, illustrate a theme of moral decay at the highest levels of society.

The open adultery, lack of shame, and brutal murders within the household of a great general highlight the moral decay among the elite of the Byzantine court.

Belisarius, a great conqueror, is reduced to licking his wife's feet and declaring himself her slave, illustrating the corruption of personal honor.

Belisarius's subservience to Antonina, his broken oaths, and the public mockery highlight moral decay among the elite.

Theodora's shameless behavior on and off the stage exemplifies the moral decay of the era.

## Links

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