Recommended read
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome
Mary Beard
Beard's acclaimed introduction to Roman politics and emperors, readable and wide-ranging.
The World During Their Reign
The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.
Emperor Wu of Liang
China
502–549
Justinian I
Rome
527–565
Emperor Xiaojing of Eastern Wei
China
534–550
Emperor Wen of Western Wei
China
535–551
Pope Vigilius
Papacy
537–555
Emperor Kinmei
Japan
539–571
Emperor Xiaozhuang of Northern Wei
China
528–531
Emperor Ankan
Japan
531–535
Emperor Keitai
Japan
507–531
Emperor Senka
Japan
536–539
Pope Felix IV
Papacy
526–530
Pope John II
Papacy
533–535
Emperor Xiaowu of Northern Wei
China
532–535
Pope Boniface II
Papacy
530–532
Emperor Jiemin of Northern Wei
China
531–532
Meanwhile in history
One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.
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From the library
Go deeper on Theodora
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
A Short History of Byzantium
John Julius Norwich
A narrative survey of the Eastern Roman emperors from Constantine to the fall of Constantinople.
Find on Amazon
Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic
Tom Holland
A gripping account of the republic's last century, essential background to the imperial age.
Find on Amazon
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