Late Roman & Byzantine Studies (2628/1300) Exam papers

• November 1992

November 1992

(In addition, candidates are allowed ten minutes, before the examination begins, to read the paper)

Candidates should answer FOUR QUESTIONS: at least one question from each section, but not more than two from Section A.

SECTION A:

1. "An accurate and faithful guide, who has composed the history of his own times without indulging the prejudices and passions which usually affect the mind of a contemporary" (Edward Gibbon).

To what extent do you think Gibbon's tribute to Ammianus is justified?

2. Procopius, in the Secret History, attacks both Belisarius and Justinian. How do his charges against them differ in
(a) their content
(b) their tone?

3. What is the chief attraction of Michael Psellus' Chronographia? How far does he seek for or achieve impartiality in his study of the rulers he discusses?

SECTION B:

4. "Julian was a lucky man, lucky to become emperor and lucky to die when he did." Discuss.

5. Explain why ascetics were so admired in late antiquity. Was their way of life harmful to the fabric of society?

6. "The biggest problem faced by late Roman emperors was getting an adequate army to take the field and protect the frontiers."
Insofar as this was a problem, what were the reasons for it? Do you agree that it was the biggest problem?

7. Opinions differ on when Byzantium begins. What are the arguments for and against the reign of Justinian as its starting-point?

8. What were the problems faced by the Macedonian dynasty and how were they successfully overcome?

9. Briefly analyse the social, economic and military factors that led to the fall of Constantinople in 1453.

10. Discuss the cultural achievements of Byzantium. Where, in your view, does their main importance lie?