Assassination of Byzantine Emperor Constans II

On September 15, 668, Byzantine Emperor Constans II was assassinated in his bath in Syracuse, Sicily, by his chamberlain. This event marked the end of a tumultuous reign that began in 641 and was characterized by significant military and religious challenges.

Background

Ascension to the Throne

Constans II, also known as Constantine the Bearded, ascended to the Byzantine throne at the age of 11 following the death of his father, Emperor Constantine III. His early reign was dominated by regency and the influence of powerful court officials.

Military Conflicts

Constans II’s reign was marked by persistent military conflicts, particularly with the expanding Arab Caliphate. The Byzantine Empire faced significant territorial losses, including the fall of Alexandria in 642 and the subsequent loss of Egypt, a vital province for the empire’s grain supply.

• Battle of the Masts (655): One of the most notable military engagements during his reign was the naval Battle of the Masts, where the Byzantine fleet suffered a significant defeat against the Arabs.

Religious Disputes

Internally, Constans II grappled with religious tensions, notably the Monothelitism controversy. This theological dispute concerned the nature of Christ’s will and led to friction between the emperor and the papacy.

• Typos (648): In an attempt to quell religious discord, Constans II issued the “Typos,” an edict that prohibited discussion of the nature of Christ’s wills. This move was largely unpopular and failed to resolve the theological disputes.

Assassination

Constans II relocated to Syracuse, Sicily, in 663, possibly to establish a new power base in the West and to escape the political intrigues of Constantinople. His assassination on September 15, 668, was carried out by his chamberlain, a reflection of the internal instability and betrayal that plagued his reign.

Aftermath

Following his assassination, Constans II was succeeded by his son, Constantine IV. The new emperor faced the daunting task of stabilizing the empire amidst ongoing external threats and internal divisions.

Historical Significance

• Military and Religious Legacy: Constans II’s reign highlighted the challenges faced by the Byzantine Empire during this period, including the relentless pressure from Arab forces and the divisive religious controversies.
• Shift in Power: His assassination underscored the volatility of Byzantine politics and the precarious nature of imperial authority during this era.

Constans II’s reign, though fraught with difficulties, was a pivotal period that set the stage for future Byzantine emperors to address the empire’s challenges and strive for stability and cohesion.