# XIII: Deceptive Affability and Piety of a Tyrant explained — The Secret History

> Chapter companion for The Secret History by Procopius.

## What happens

This chapter exposes the profound hypocrisy and tyranny of Emperor Justinian, who presents a facade of affability and piety while ruthlessly destroying his subjects. It details his corruption, lawlessness, greed, and manipulation of religion to justify murder and confiscation of property, highlighting his deceptive nature and the ruin he brought upon the Roman state.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hypocrisy and Deception

Justinian's outward affability and piety mask his true nature as a ruthless tyrant who murders and steals under the guise of religion.

### Corruption and Tyranny

The emperor's decisions are driven by bribes and personal gain, and he systematically ruins his subjects through illegal means.

### Abuse of Power

Justinian uses his authority to kill innocent people, sack cities, confiscate property, and manipulate the legal system for his own benefit.

## Character check-ins

### Justinian

Depicted as a deceptive tyrant who feigns affability and piety while ordering mass murder, confiscating property, and breaking laws for personal gain.

### Theodora

Described as sharing Justinian's desires for slaughter and destruction, manipulating him through promises of profit.

### Tribonian

Mentioned as a courtier who flatters Justinian, expressing fear that his piety might cause him to be taken to heaven in a chariot of fire.

## Key lines

> Nor were his decisions made according to the laws himself had written: but whichever way was to his greater advantage, and promised the more elaborate bribe.

His rulings ignored his own laws and were based solely on what brought him the most profit or the largest bribe.

_Illustrates the corruption of justice under Justinian._

> He made frequent promises, guaranteed with a sworn oath or by a written confirmation; and then purposely forgot them directly, thinking this summary negligence added to his importance.

He often made promises backed by oaths or documents, only to deliberately break them immediately, believing this carelessness enhanced his status.

_Highlights Justinian's deceitfulness and lack of integrity._

> For he was, as I said, unusually keen at inventing and quick at accomplishing unholy acts, so that even the good in him transpired to be answerable for the downfall of his subjects.

He was exceptionally skilled at devising and swiftly carrying out wicked deeds, so that even his positive qualities contributed to the ruin of his people.

_Emphasizes the destructive nature of Justinian's character._

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