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Zoe PorphyrogenitaByzantine Empress, daughter of Emperor Constantine VIII
Date of Birth: 01.01.0978
Country:  Turkey |
Content:
- Zoë: A Byzantine Empress of Note
- A Passion for Cosmetics
- Distinctive Physical Traits
- Diplomatic Entanglements
- Emperor Constantine's Dilemma
- Marriage to Romanos III Argyros
- An Empire Led by Women
- Legacy of a Controversial Empress
Zoë: A Byzantine Empress of Note
The Porphyrogenita PrincessZoë was born around 978 AD as the second daughter of Emperor Constantine VIII and Empress Helena Alypina. As her father was co-ruler with Emperor Basil II, she held the title of Porphyrogenita, signifying her birth within the imperial chambers.
A Passion for Cosmetics
Zoë exhibited an unusual interest in chemistry and cosmetics, dedicating herself to creating fragrances and ointments. Her chemical apparatus and the constant heat and humidity in her chambers suggest a deep obsession with maintaining her appearance.
Distinctive Physical Traits
According to the Byzantine chronicler Michael Psellus, Zoë maintained her youthful beauty well into her old age, thanks to her cosmetic regimen. However, he noted that her hands trembled and her back had become stooped by the time she reached her seventies.
Diplomatic Entanglements
In her early years, Zoë was considered a potential bride for Emperor Otto III of the Holy Roman Empire, but the marriage fell through due to his untimely death. Later, Emperor Conrad II sought her hand for his ten-year-old son, Henry, but Constantine VIII declined.
Emperor Constantine's Dilemma
Emperor Constantine VIII held reservations about passing the throne to a female line, as tradition dictated. However, with no male heirs, he ultimately consented to marry off Zoë. His younger daughter, Theodora, declined marriage, leaving Zoë as the only option.
Marriage to Romanos III Argyros
At the age of 50, Zoë was married to Romanos III Argyros, the Prefect of Constantinople. Romanos was already married, but his wife was forced to take monastic vows to accommodate Zoë's union.
An Empire Led by Women
After the death of Michael IV Paphlagon, Zoë's second husband, she was forcibly tonsured a nun. However, a popular uprising led to her reinstatement as empress alongside her sister Theodora. Zoë then married for a third time to Constantine IX Monomachos.
Legacy of a Controversial Empress
Zoë's life epitomizes the complexities and intrigues of Byzantine court life. As described by historian Charles Diehl, her story is "undoubtedly one of the most piquant that has been preserved in Byzantine chronicles and one of the most familiar to us."
