This session brings together a group of researchers who all utilise Procopius of Caesarea’s texts as a significant part of their investigations. They will deliver their research results which demonstrate the variety and relevance of Procopius’ legacy. Elif Keser-Kayaalp will analyse how, in Book 2 of “Buildings”, Procopius focuses on Mesopotamia while rarely mentioning the churches or monasteries in this frontier region. She will show the potential of his many layered texts and read the “Buildings” in a new light in relation to the miaphysites. David Kennedy will argue for Procopius using characterisation of certain of Justinian’s generals to shine light on the many faults that Procopius saw in Justinian. Christopher Lillington-Martin will evaluate some of Procopius’ medical anecdotes, comparing his description of combat wounds with those described by Paul of Aegina to engage with medical discourse and to identify literary and conceptual parallels in the depiction and treatment of illness and injury. Süha Konuk will present the preliminary results of the archaeological survey project, 2024-2026, with the aim of determining the precise location of the battle of Dara in 530 inspired by Procopius’ narrative. Jakob Riemenschneider will enlighten us on Procopius’ portrayal of the Mauri and scriptural imagery. Procopius of Caesarea’s account on the origin of the Mauri peoples is an extraordinary piece of learned, and creative synthesis. It is a very contemporary mixture of traditional origo-elements, Christian preoccupations with their Jewish past, and eschatological theorising. All of these work together to give ethnography renewed relevance while retaining its distinct historiographical utility.
Elif Keser-Kayaalp will analyse how, in Book 2 of “Buildings”, Procopius focuses on Mesopotamia while rarely mentioning the churches or monasteries in this frontier region. She will show the potential of his many layered texts and reads the “Buildings” in a new light in relation to the miaphysites.
David Kennedy will argue for Procopius using characterisation of certain of Justinian’s generals to shine light on the many faults that Procopius saw in Justinian.
Christopher Lillington-Martin will evaluate some of Procopius’ medical anecdotes, comparing his description of combat wounds with those described by Paul of Aegina to engage with medical discourse and to identify literary and conceptual parallels in the depiction and treatment of illness and injury.
Süha Konuk will present the preliminary results of the archaeological survey project, 2024–2026, with the aim of determining the precise location of the battle of Dara in 530 inspired by Procopius’ narrative.