Theodore II Lascaris as co-emperor: Reality and misapprehensions in Byzantine historiography

Abstract

This article consists of two main parts. The first part quotes, once again, relevant sources for Theodore II Lascaris’ status as co-emperor and discusses some of Theodore II’s activities as co-ruler. The second part deals with the testimonies of three Byzantine historians: George Acropolites, George Pachymeres and Nikephoros Gregoras, who provide us with different information concerning Theodore II Lascaris as co-emperor. While Acropolites refers to Theodore II as basileuj even before he actually came to the throne, Pachymeres and Gregoras claim that Theodore II was never his father’s coruler. Thus, it is the aim of this study to offer an explanation for the differences in the testimonies of the mentioned historians. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 177032]

Keywords

• Theodore II Lascaris
• George Acropolites
• George Pachymeres
• Nikephoros Gregoras
• co-emperor