The interstices of Theodora’s experiences flow into a continuum of shared experiences familiar to any woman living in any age and culture controlled by men. Duffy weaves a plausible tapestry-like narrative, illuminating the smallest details of daily life in the sixth century as well as each pinnacle and nadir of Theodora’s tumultuous life. Her father was a bear trainer at the Hippodrome, the vast sports stadium that was the social center of Constantinople and the site of Theodora’s early career as an acrobat and actress, which, back in the day, also denoted prostitute. Scholars believe she was born between 497 and 510 AD. Duffy presents a main character that is brilliant, flawed, and utterly mesmerizing. Stella Duffy’s historical novel about the most progressive empress of Byzantium and wife of the late-Roman emperor Justinian I, affords the attention and respect the historical Theodora deserves. Theodora (Penguin Press) as history is fascinating. ‘Theodora: Actress, Empress, Whore’ by Stella Duffy
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