Theodora, << `thee` uh DOHR uh >> (A.D. 502?-548) was the wife of Justinian I, Byzantine (East Roman) emperor from 527 to 565. A beautiful and strong-willed woman, Theodora tried to influence Justinian’s policies and to use her position to advance her friends and ruin her enemies. In 532, a rebellion in the capital city of Constantinople threatened to overthrow the empire. Theodora persuaded Justinian to stay and defend the city rather than to flee. Justinian crushed the rebels, thus securing his absolute power.
Theodora was probably born in Constantinople. Her father, an animal trainer, died when she was a child, leaving her in poverty. She became a pantomime actress before marrying Justinian around 525. As empress, she founded a convent to house poor women. She died on June 28, 548.
See also Justinian I.
