Part 1:
1. What role did the move of the capital to Constantinople play in the growth of the Byzantine Empire?
The Roman Emporor, Constantine, establish Constantinople in 330 CE. Constantine was attracted to this site because it enabled him to control land and sea trade routes between Europe and Asia. Indeed, the city's location as a crossroad contributed greatly to its growth. After Constantine's death in 395 CE, the Roman Empire divided into two parts. Constantinople became the capital of the Eastern half of the empire. This region came to be called the Byzantine Empire. The center of this city was the Milion. The main road through the city, called the Mesē, extended westward from the Milion. Constantine built a hippodrome, a stadium designed for chariot races. This was the largest hippodrome in the world at the time. It was used for imperial ceremonies and political demonstrations. It could hold about 60,000 spectators and included more than a dozen monuments. Constantinople had legislative halls, churches, monasteries, baths, fountains, markets, and aqueducts.
2. Identify similarities and differences between Constantinople and modern-day cities.
Modern cities and Constantinople have a very rich diversity of cultures. They also have become very rich because of the increasing trade, market value, and taxes. One differance is Constantinople made seperate sections for certain religions to live together.
3. What cultures influenced the development of Constantinople?
Constantinople's location between Europe and Asia helped create a culture that was influenced by both regions. The city's art and architecture combines European and Asian styles.
4. How was society structured in the Byzantine Empire? In what ways is that structure similar to and different from the structure of the society in which you live?
In 4 classes. The Upper Class; The aristocracy consisted of a small number of wealthy