Edinburgh History of the Greeks, c. 500 to 1050

This is a completely new approach to the history of Greece during the early Middle Ages. This book is the first comprehensive treatment of the economic and social history of Greece during the early Middle Ages. From the collapse of the urban economy in the early 7th century to the beginning of prosperity during the first half of the 11th century, it examines the crucial transformations taking place in Greece during the 'Dark Ages' and the Middle Byzantine period. Bringing together archaeological and historical research of early medieval Greece, Curta offers a completely new dimension in the history of the region, which has never been considered in its totality and is still relatively unknown. Modern boundaries and nationalist preconception regarding ethnic identity have long hindered an adequate study of early medieval Greece. By contrast, the wide-ranging approach adopted here highlights the similarities and differences in the archaeological evidence associated with different social and ethnic groups, whose identities were much more fluid than previously imagined.

"'This very learned and detailed investigation represents an advance in the field... While the paucity of written (literary and epigraphic) sources is one challenge, Curta introduces much valuable numismatic and sigillographic evidence... There is no comparable book.' (American Historical Review) 'Curta applies his considerable archaeological expertise and historical acumen to questions of ethnic identity, migrations and cultural and economic change in the earlier middle ages. While focusing on Greece, he sets developments within the broader Balkan context, challenging assumptions about Byzantium's 'Dark Ages' and offering an important and original synthesis.' (Jonathan Shepard, retired Lecturer in History, University of Cambridge)"

Florin Curta is Professor of Medieval History and Archaeology at the University of Florida.