The Secret History · Question
How does The Secret History develop the theme of Corruption and Tyranny?
Answer
The Secret History by Procopius develops Corruption and Tyranny across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book systematically details the pervasive corruption, greed, and tyrannical rule of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, who manipulate laws, sell offices, and plunder their subjects for personal gain.
The foreword sets up the exposure of Justinian and Theodora's depravity, warning future generations about the dangers of tyrannical rule.
Justinian and Theodora's systematic corruption of offices, confiscation of property, and tyrannical rule over the empire.
Justinian's rule is depicted as a second pestilence, corrupting all noble traditions and bringing ruin through murder and seizure of property.
Evidence in the book
- Foreword by the Historian
The foreword sets up the exposure of Justinian and Theodora's depravity, warning future generations about the dangers of tyrannical rule.
- The Secret History
Justinian and Theodora's systematic corruption of offices, confiscation of property, and tyrannical rule over the empire.
- Ignorance of the Emperor Justin, and His Stencilled Signature, and How His Nephew Justinian Was the Virtual Ruler
Justinian's rule is depicted as a second pestilence, corrupting all noble traditions and bringing ruin through murder and seizure of property.
- VII: Outrages of the Blues
Justinian uses the Blues faction to destabilize the state, turning the government into a tool for oppression and lawlessness.
- Character and Appearance of Justinian
The Emperor's rule is characterized by corruption, including spending public money recklessly, accepting bribes, and driving universal poverty through confiscation.
- XI: How the Defender of the Faith Ruined His Subjects
Justinian abolishes established laws and offices, renames everything after himself, and loots the wealthy for personal gain.
- XII: Proving That Justinian and Theodora Were Actually Fiends in Human Form
Justinian and Theodora systematically corrupt the legal system, forge wills, and bribe servants to confiscate wealth, demonstrating absolute tyranny.
- XIII: Deceptive Affability and Piety of a Tyrant
The emperor's decisions are driven by bribes and personal gain, and he systematically ruins his subjects through illegal means.
