Empress Theodora
(c. 500–548)

The wife of Emperor Justinian I, Empress Theodora is perhaps the most powerful woman in Byzantine history. Remembered as one of the first rulers to recognize the rights of women, Theodora helped raise the status of women in the Byzantine Empire far above that of women in Europe and the Middle East.

Little is known about the first years of Theodora's life. Some historians believe that she was born on the island of Crete off the coast of Greece. Others think she may have been born in Syria. Theodora was raised by her father, a bear trainer who worked in the Hippodrome, an arena, in Constantinople. She worked as an actress until the age of 16 when she traveled to northern Africa as the companion of a government official. She stayed in Africa for four years before going back to Constantinople. Upon returning, Theodora did not resume her life as an actress, but instead became a wool spinner. She might have remained in this profession if she had not met Justinian, the heir to the Byzantine throne. Attracted by her beauty and intelligence, Justinian married Theodora in 525. After the death of his father in 527, Justinian and Theodora were crowned Emperor and Empress of Byzantium.

During their reign, Theodora became Justinian's most trusted advisor. This can be seen in her influence over Justinian during the Nika revolt in 532. During this revolt, an opposing force set up a rival emperor and was threatening to take over the Empire. Justinian's advisors encouraged him to flee. As he was about to leave, however, Theodora gave a speech that compelled Justinian to stay and fight. On her advice, Justinian directed his generals to go to battle. They were successful and the opposition was defeated.

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