Not Composed in a Chance Manner: The Epitaphios for Manuel I Komnenos by Eustathios of Thessalonike

One of the longest political eulogies of the Byzantine Era, the “Epitaphios” for the emperor Manuel I Komnenenos was delivered by the scholar bishop, Eustathios of Thessalonike. In his new book, Not Composed in a Chance Manner (Uppsala University Press), Bourbouhakis presents the oration in a critical edition, with translation, detailed commentary, and an introduction that sheds light on the context behind the speech. The style of the speech and threat of political turmoil at the Byzantine court at the time are conveyed in Bourbouhakis’ new work, highlighting the literary, ceremonial and political contexts for the eulogy.