Michael Choniates

Michael Choniates, born in the year one thousand one hundred thirty-eight, was a prominent Byzantine Greek writer and cleric hailing from Chonae, the ancient Colossae. His early education took place in Constantinople, where he had the privilege of studying under the esteemed Eustathius of Thessalonica. In the year one thousand one hundred eighty-two, he ascended to the position of archbishop of Athens, a role he held with distinction until the year one thousand two hundred four.

During his tenure, Choniates became known for his courageous defense of the Acropolis of Athens against the forces of Leo Sgouros in one thousand two hundred four. He valiantly held the stronghold until the arrival of the Crusaders in one thousand two hundred five, at which point he surrendered the city. Following the establishment of Latin control, he chose to retire to the island of Ceos, where he would later relocate to the monastery of Vodonitsa near Thermopylae, ultimately passing away on the fourth of July in the year one thousand two hundred seventeen.

Choniates is celebrated among classical scholars as the last custodian of complete versions of Callimachus's Hecale and Aitia. His literary contributions were diverse, encompassing homilies, speeches, and poems that provide valuable insights into the socio-political landscape of Attica and Athens during his lifetime. Noteworthy works include his memorial to Alexios III Angelos, addressing the abuses of Byzantine administration, as well as a poignant lament over the decline of Athens and monodies dedicated to his brother Nicetas and Eustathius, the archbishop of Thessalonica.

In addition to his scholarly pursuits, it is believed that his daughter Constantina played a significant role in educating John of Basingstoke, Archdeacon of Leicester, in Greek and science, fostering his advocacy for the Greek language. Furthermore, one of Choniates's pupils, George Bardanes, who accompanied him during his exile on Ceos, would go on to become a distinguished bishop in the years that followed.