Aidan Moretti
Essay Outline
The declines of the Roman Empire simultaneously lead to the birth of the Byzantine Empire. The moving of the capitol of Rome literally snapped the whole of Rome into two parts. While the west part of former Rome fell to foreign invaders, the eastern part prospered and became what is known as the Byzantine Empire. To evaluate, if Justinian revived the Roman Empire, one must compare the major features of Rome’s strengths to the Byzantine Empire, for just because two communities have the same weaknesses does not necessarily mean they are the same. Moreover, to evaluate Justinian’s legacy, one must weigh his progression of the state, improvement of community, and overall opinions toward him from the public eye. Justinian came to power in 527 AD and was determined to revive the Roman Empire. Justinian brought numerous communal and legislative reforms, and raised Christianity to new heights of public priority reviving the culture and infrastructure of Rome, while still differing from past Roman culture through subtle nuances.
Justinian tried to bring back the culture of Rome by bringing Christianity to the height of its popularity. The description of Justinian by a Byzantine official suggested that Justinian Ruled like the Early Roman Empires. Also, the official suggested, that his rank was similar to that of God, which not only was a direct relation to the Roman Empire, but also provided more obedience from god-fearing citizens (Document 3). In fact, Justinian took such a priority in publicizing Christianity that he constructed the Hagia Sophia, which was a Christian temple (Document 4). The Hagia Sophia was covered in pure gold and was topped with an enormous dome held up but a circle of arches, and it baffled anyone, who entered inside to pray. However, The Hagia Sophia was a clear distinction of where the priorities of the Justinian’s Reign laid. The Hagia Sophia dwarfed all past Roman churches, and was even larger than...