Destiny Eikenberry
Ms. McCuen-HR 10
Writing Assignment
What kind of ruler was Justinian I?
Justinian I was the greatest Byzantine ruler. His achievements in conquest, law, arts and architecture, and the support of his wife are remarkable by the standards of any leader in history. The good things Justinian did outweigh the bad, making him a sovereign ruler. He was ambitious, and believed that he could restore the empire to its former glory. Justinian conquered many lands and territories, preserved Roman Law, and improved architecture and art with the help of his wife, Theodora. All of his accomplishments make him one of the greatest rulers in late Roman and Byzantine history.
Justinian I conquered many territories during his reign, which
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Justinian’s Code served as a legal basis for criminal justice, marriage, property, slavery, and women’s rights. Justinian wanted outdated laws removed or updated and new laws added. He also appointed a group to create four books called the Codex Justinianus. The Codex contained some new laws but mostly revised old ones. The books remain the foundation for laws in many nations today. “Justinian assigned a committee of ten lawyers to review all the laws and rules of previous emperors.” (chapter 6 resource guide, pg 5) This means that the Codex is one of the most influential resources in western law. Many laws that Justinian helped create we still use and practice …show more content…
Theodora shared in Justinian’s plans and political strategies. She helped save the throne in the Nika riot, convincing Justinian not to flee the city but to stay and fight. It was also noted that few accomplishments were made after Theodora’s death, meaning that she helped make the changed during Justinian’s reign. “She often influenced her husband’s decisions with her advice and persuasion.” (chapter 6 resource guide, pg 7) This quote shows me that “behind every great man was a great woman”, and that Theodora had equal power and strength as Justinian. Altogether, Theodora was one of the most influential and powerful of the Eastern Roman