The word ‘Byzantine’ has come to mean double-dealing and cunning but what was it like to be Byzantine? How did the Byzantines view their world and what impact did they have on their European and Near-Eastern neighbours? Using a variety of written and artistic sources explore a fascinating world of emperors and saints, soldiers and courtiers. Consider the importance of the city of Constantinople, the emperor and Orthodox Christianity for ‘being Byzantine’, relations with Franks, Slavs and Arabs - all climaxing in the calamitous events of 1204 and their aftermath. Learn through illustrated lectures and online resources.