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Entity shares the life of Theodora, Byzantine Empress, a famous woman in history.

In our ongoing series #WomenThatDid ENTITY profiles inspirational and famous women in history whose impact on our world can still be felt today. If you have a suggestion for a historical powerhouse you would like to see featured tweet us with the hashtag #WomenThatDid. 

Name: Theodora, Byzantine Empress

Lifetime: 500 – June 28, 548

What she’s known for: Theodora was a Byzantine empress and wife of Emperor Justinian I. She was one of the most powerful and influential Byzantine empresses, some arguing that she was co-regent with her husband. In the Eastern Orthodox Church she is recognized as a saint and commemorated on November 14.

ENTITY reports on Theodora, one of the famous women in history, and her incredible life.

Painting of Theodora by Jean-Joseph Benjamin-Constant

Why we love her: Theodora was perhaps of Greek or Syrian descent. She worked in a Constantinople brothel before becoming an actress. She earned a living by using her theatrical and sexual skills, and made a name for herself for her portrayal of “Leda and the Swan.”

She gave up her profession in 522 for wool spinning. However, she couldn’t abandon her charm, beauty and wit, qualities that captured Justinian’s attentions. They wed in 525 after a law forbidding emperors from marrying actresses was repealed at Justinian’s request.

During the Nika riots, an upheaval by two political factions, Theodora proved herself to be a capable leader. She refused to leave the palace, arguing the significance of someone who died as a ruler, rather than cowering in defeat and exile. She said, “Royal purple is the noblest shroud.” Her words convinced everyone, including Justinian, to stay.

ENTITY reports on Theodora, one of the famous women in history, and her incredible life.

Theodora mosaic at Basilica San Vitale

After the destruction wrought by the riots, they rebuilt Constantinople into the most beautiful city in the world. During this time the Hagia Sophia, one of the seven architectural wonders of the world, was constructed. Her work for women improved the lives of many; she passed laws that outlawed forced prostitution and closed down brothels. She expanded the rights of divorcees and their right to own property. She instituted the death penalty for rape, forbid infanticide, gave mothers guardianship rights and forbid the killing of adulterous women. She died, probably of cancer, at 48 years old.

Fun fact: There are two distinct portrayals of Theodora: a courageous and influential empress, who saved the throne for Justinian, or a woman of tantalizing vulgarity and lust.

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