The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire · Character
John IV Lascaris
Also known as John Lascaris, John Palaeologus, John V Palaeologus
- Minor
- First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 275
This young emperor carries the weight of imperial responsibility despite his tender age, his slight diadem marking both his hereditary right and his vulnerability. There's something poignant about a child walking in the train of guardians, trembling yet acknowledged.
- Gender
- male
- Age
- 8 years at father's death
- First appears
- Book 1 · Ch. 275
- Books
- 1
John IV Lascaris became emperor at the age of eight following his father's death, left an orphan and emperor in his ninth year. His weakness was protected by guardians, and his hereditary right was acknowledged through marriage alliances. However, he was ultimately blinded to prevent his claim to the throne and removed to a distant castle, transforming from a protected pupil to a tragic figure of Byzantine politics.
Description
John IV Lascaris appears as a child emperor of eight or nine years, his slight build and trembling youth contrasting with the imperial diadem he wears. His Lascaris lineage is evident in his features, while his role as an orphan emperor protected by guardians marks his vulnerable position. The marks of his eventual blinding become his most distinguishing characteristic.
Story so far
BOOK 1The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire / Table of Contents with links in the HTML file to the two Project Gutenberg editions (12 volumes)
Appearances
Meet John IV Lascaris in Bookworm
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