May I never see the day when those who meet me do not call me 'Empress.' — Theodora (image via The Metropolitan Museum of Art) Some sixth century texts still refer to Theodora as a "prostitute," but she wasn't a whore: before she became the most powerful woman in the ancient world, she worked as an actress. Her family was of the lowest tier in Byzantine society, destitute and desperate. When her father died, teenage Theodora began acting in shows to support the family. At the time, her work on the stage was considered just as scandalous as work in a brothel.
A Woman to Know: Theodora
A Woman to Know: Theodora
A Woman to Know: Theodora
May I never see the day when those who meet me do not call me 'Empress.' — Theodora (image via The Metropolitan Museum of Art) Some sixth century texts still refer to Theodora as a "prostitute," but she wasn't a whore: before she became the most powerful woman in the ancient world, she worked as an actress. Her family was of the lowest tier in Byzantine society, destitute and desperate. When her father died, teenage Theodora began acting in shows to support the family. At the time, her work on the stage was considered just as scandalous as work in a brothel.