Prophesying Statues

Abstract

The Byzantine apocalyptic tradition proliferates with vibrant prophecies. Many of these were associated with monuments and statues within Constantinople, and many of them played a pivotal role in the decisions of the Byzantines and their emperors in political crises. In my paper, I focus on key examples of prophesying statues that showcase the active attempts made by emperors and citizens to harness omens and prophesies and to conform them to desired narratives. I support Paul Magdalino’s thesis that prophesies functioned actively in Byzantine society – as causes and not just effects of history. The evidence leads me to conclude that prophecies functioned as living narratives in Byzantine society. Grounded in material objects, they could be used to control history and fate.