Gone Medieval Theodora, the rags to riches Empress
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Jun 10, 2025 Stella Duffy, an author known for her historical fiction on Empress Theodora, shares insights into the extraordinary rise of a woman from humble beginnings to Byzantine power. The discussion explores Theodora’s fierce advocacy for women's rights, including reforms against sex trafficking. Duffy also highlights the challenges of portraying Theodora’s complex legacy as both a controversial figure and a saint. Their conversation reflects on the importance of reclaiming women's narratives in history and the enduring impact of Theodora's life on modern feminism.
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Discovering Theodora's Legacy
- Stella Duffy discovered Empress Theodora's extraordinary story upon seeing mosaics in Ravenna and couldn't believe such a influential woman was so unknown.
- She was shocked that Theodora was depicted the same size as the emperor, highlighting her significance in Byzantine history.
Theodora’s Unlikely Rise
- Theodora rose from poverty and a socially stigmatized profession to become one of the most powerful women of her time.
- Her rise reveals the blurred lines between actress and sex worker in the early medieval period and the fluidity of social status at the time.
Justinian’s Legal and Architectural Impact
- Justinian’s reign brought legal reforms that influenced modern European law, centralizing and codifying laws under the Codex.
- He also initiated massive building projects like the Hagia Sophia, symbolizing Constantinople’s power and culture.
