Alexiad

The Alexiad is a historical and biographical account written in the mid-12th century by Anna Komnene, the daughter of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. It is a key primary source for understanding Byzantine history, particularly during Alexios' reign (1081–1118), a period marked by significant political and military challenges.

The work provides a detailed narrative of Alexios' life and reign, focusing on his military campaigns against the Normans, Pechenegs, Cumans, and Seljuk Turks. It also covers internal political intrigues, court life, and religious matters. Anna's writing style is characterized by classical allusions and rhetorical flourishes, reflecting her high level of education.

While a valuable historical document, the Alexiad is not without its biases. As a devoted daughter, Anna clearly portrays her father in a favorable light, often exaggerating his achievements and downplaying his shortcomings. Her accounts of events should therefore be read critically, taking into consideration her personal connection to the subject. Despite this inherent bias, the Alexiad offers invaluable insights into the political, social, and military landscape of the Byzantine Empire during a crucial period of its history. It remains a fundamental source for scholars studying the Komnenian dynasty and the wider history of the Byzantine world.