In his comprehensive history of the Byzantine Empire, Edward Foord provides a detailed account of the rise and fall of one of the most influential civilizations in world history. Foord expertly navigates through the political, social, and religious developments that shaped the empire, painting a vivid picture of its dynamic and complex society.

One of the strengths of this book is Foord's ability to contextualize events within their historical and cultural significance. He provides a thorough analysis of key figures and events, showing how they shaped the course of the empire. Additionally, Foord delves into the intricacies of Byzantine art, architecture, and religion, shedding light on the empire's rich cultural heritage.

However, some readers may find the sheer amount of information overwhelming at times. Foord covers a vast amount of material, which can make the book challenging to digest in one sitting. Additionally, some readers may have preferred a more engaging writing style to further bring the history of the Byzantine Empire to life.

Overall, Edward Foord's Byzantine Empire is a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this fascinating civilization. Its comprehensive approach and insightful analysis make it a must-read for history enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Book Description:
A concise and comprehensive guide to the Byzantine empire from Constantine to its dissolution. Foord explores in an accessible manner why it was important to history, the significance of noteworthy events, and how it eventually fell. While sometimes describing the experience of the everyday people, he mainly focuses on the wars and policies of Byzantine emperors.