Theodore Metochites: Statesman and Philosopher, 1270-1332

"Theodore Metochites (1270-1328) is one of the most important writers, thinkers, and statemen of the Byzantine Empire. Metochites and his rival Nikephoros Choumnos (1250-1327) animated the philosophical and cultural debate in Constantinople in the early fourteenth century. Each held the title of mesazon, a powerful position in the Byzantine government, and both men were active just before the controversy concerning the "divine light" and mystic contemplation (Hesychasm) that broke out in 13...