
Pantheon of Byzantine poets
The Pantheon of Byzantine poets refers to the renowned group of poets from the Byzantine Empire, a civilization centered around Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul) from the 4th to 15th centuries. This group includes influential figures like Johannes Tzetzes, known for his literary style, and Michael Psellos, famed for blending classical learning with Christian themes. These poets crafted works in Greek that ranged from religious hymns to political satire, shaping Byzantine culture and literature. Their poetry reflects the empire’s complex identity—combining Christian faith, classical heritage, and imperial ideology—making them central to understanding Byzantine intellectual history.