The Alexiad
The Alexiad by Anna Komnene is a revised edition published by National Geographic Books on September 29, 2009. This 608-page work is recognized as the first narrative history written by a woman, offering a unique perspective on medieval events. Written between 1143 and 1153, it serves as a primary source that reveals the inner workings of the Byzantine court and profiles significant figures of the time, while also providing a firsthand account of events such as the First Crusade and its effects on eastern and western Christianity.
Readers will find an insightful exploration of the political and social dynamics of the medieval world through the eyes of Princess Anna Komnene, the daughter of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. The text presents a detailed view of Constantinople and the relationships that shaped the era, making it a valuable resource for those interested in history, biography, and personal memoirs. This edition maintains the integrity of the original work while making it accessible to contemporary audiences.
Official synopsis Publisher
A revised edition of a medieval masterpiece—the first narrative history written by a woman
Written between 1143 and 1153 by the daughter of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, The Alexiad is one of the most popular and revealing primary sources in the vast canon of medieval literature. Princess Anna Komnene, eldest child of the imperial couple, reveals the inner workings of the court, profiles its many extraordinary personages, and offers a firsthand account of immensely significant events such as the First Crusade, as well as its impact on the relationship between eastern and western Christianity. A celebrated triumph of Byzantine letters, this is an unparalleled view of the glorious Constantinople and the medieval world.
For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
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