The Byzantine Urban Economy: Constantinople and the Rise of the City-State

The Byzantine Urban Economy: Constantinople and the Rise of the City-State by Ryan Evans delves into the intricate relationship between urban development, economic structures, and political power within the Byzantine Empire, with a particular focus on Constantinople. This book explores how the city transformed from a modest settlement to the thriving metropolis at the heart of the empire, examining its role as a commercial hub, political center, and cultural epicenter. Evans traces the growth of Constantinople's urban economy, highlighting key factors such as imperial policy, trade networks, and the influence of the Church. He explores the strategic significance of the city's location, its infrastructure, and the economic activities that flourished within its walls, including the rise of guilds, markets, and luxury goods production. The book also investigates the complex relationship between imperial power and local economic autonomy, as well as the role of taxation, public works, and military investments in shaping urban life. Through detailed historical analysis and primary source examination, The Byzantine Urban Economy provides insight into how Constantinople, despite external threats and internal challenges, became a model of urbanization and statecraft in the medieval world. The book sheds light on the socioeconomic foundations that supported the empire's longevity, while also offering a nuanced understanding of the urban dynamics that contributed to the eventual decline of Byzantine power. This work is essential for anyone seeking to understand the economic, social, and political evolution of one of history's most influential cities.