Michael IV the Paphlagonian
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Michael IV the Paphlagonian was Byzantine Emperor from 11 April 1034 to his death on 10 December 1041.
Michael IV, 11th century depiction from the Madrid Skylitzes
Murder of emperor Romanos III Argyros under the order of Michael IV the Paphlagonian, from the Manasses Chronicle
The Christian widow of the caliph of Egypt sends a letter to Michael IV.
The wedding of Michael and Zoë, as depicted in the Madrid Skylitzes
John the Orphanotrophos
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John the Orphanotrophos was a highly influential eunuch advisor to the Byzantine Emperor Romanos III. John was born in the region of Paphlagonia. His family were said to be involved in a disreputable
Michael IV the Paphlagonian
…April 1034 to his death on 10 December 1041. The son of a peasant, Michael worked as a money changer until he was found a job at court by his brother John the Orphanotrophos. He caught the eye of the empress Zoë Porphyrogenita and they began a tempestuous and flagrant affair. It is believed that they conspired to murder her…
Zoe asks Sgouritzes to poison John the Orphanotrophos