Theophanes

Theophanes refers to several historical figures, most notably Theophanes the Confessor. He was a Byzantine monk and chronicler who lived from approximately 758 to 817 AD. His most significant work is the Chronographia, a chronicle of world history from the creation of the world up to his own time, with a particular focus on the Byzantine Empire. The Chronographia is a crucial source for understanding the Iconoclastic controversy and the early centuries of the Byzantine Empire. Theophanes was known for his staunch opposition to iconoclasm, which led to his imprisonment and eventual exile, earning him the title "Confessor" for his steadfast faith.

Another notable Theophanes is Theophanes of Byzantium, a 6th-century AD Byzantine historian. He wrote a history of his time, covering the reign of Justinian I. Unfortunately, only fragments of his work survive, but these fragments provide valuable insights into the military and political events of the period, particularly concerning conflicts with the Sasanian Empire and the Gothic Wars. His writing style is often described as concise and factual.

There are other individuals named Theophanes in history, including saints and clergy, but Theophanes the Confessor and Theophanes of Byzantium are the most prominent figures associated with this name in historical and academic contexts. Theophanes the Confessor's Chronographia remains a cornerstone for Byzantine studies, while Theophanes of Byzantium offers a contemporary account of a pivotal era in Roman and Byzantine history.