Alexius I Comnenus

Alexius ^I Comnenus ( 1058 ^{A military career}

At the ^eleventh century the Byzantine Empire is marked by the irresistible rise of a nobility based on birth and access to military duties. Alexis is a member of these families. It is high, and his brothers, his mother Anne Dalassena to one day mount the throne. This in fact has never accepted the refusal of her husband, John Comnenus, to succeed his brother Isaac ^I Komnenos when he abdicated in 1059 in favor of Constantine X Doukas. Also handy Does a marriage strategy that unites all Comnenus great families of the empire. Alexis is so, his position as courtier, knowledge of the main aristocratic clans and estimating their importance.

His first contact with the army back to the months before the defeat of Manzikert ( 1071 ) when his mother sent him to join the Emperor Romanus IV Diogenes to replace his older brother Manuel Comnenus , who died of disease during the campaign. Alexis is only 13 years. The emperor ordered him to return immediately, however, to Constantinople.

The fight against Roussel de Bailleul

During the decade of chaos following the defeat of Manzikert , Alexis proves a capable commander. Around 1073 , he directed under the orders of his brother Isaac, a small army, which faces the Turks with the Norman mercenary Roussel de Bailleul. He was only 15 years. However, Norman's betrayal leads to the defeat of Isaac, who was captured . Alexis continues fight against the Turks with an army inferior in numbers, retreated with courage and returned to Constantinople in the autumn of 1073. The Caesar John Doukas , an uncle of the Emperor, is defeated and taken prisoner by Roussel Sangarius Bridge (near Ancyra ), and his son Andronicus . Roussel proclaims his illustrious emperor prisoner.

The Chief Norman is a threat to the empire such as Michael VII refers to the Seljuk Turks to get rid of. Beaten in Cappadocia by the Turkish emir Artouch, Roussel was taken prisoner. Cons quickly released for ransom, he took refuge in Armenia , in Amasya , and possessed himself of the major cities of Bridge. Alexis , who just turned 17, was appointed stratopdarque ( 1075 ) and sent to seize the Norman. It is little more than a thousand men and practical campaign of harassment. Alexis also uses diplomacy (constant found later throughout his reign) and makes contact with a Turkish chief named Toutach, presumably sent by Malik Shah ^I.. He takes possession of Roussel and the book to Alexis, who is then faced with the discontent of the people of Amasya, on which he intends to pay the sum promised to the Turks . He then returned to Constantinople by sea, as the overland route is blocked by Turkish bands, reflecting the weakening of the empire.

A troubled times

In November 1077 , Nicephorus Bryennius , usually from a noble family , rebelled and seized in Macedonia, while his brother John Bryennius attempts to besiege the capital. Alexis controls the defense with the help of Roussel de Bailleul , released from prison on the orders of Emperor Michael VII. The two former opponents were victorious over the army of John Bryennius in January 1078. This achievement raises opposition to the marriage of Michael VII with Alexis Irene Doukas , granddaughter of Cesar Jean Ducas, the uncle of the emperor and real head of the family Doukas. The only son of the latter, Andronicus, is dying and it seems important to John Doukas and his daughter, Mary of Bulgaria , to ensure the future of the family with a guard at the rising star of all that political horizon of Basileus seems uncertain.

Indeed, this victory is just she obtained a second revolt broke out, led by the Duke of Anatolia, Nicephorus Botaneiats in Asia Minor. March 25, 1078 , a riot broke out of his supporters in Constantinople. Alexis, who leads the troops in the capital, is confident he can stand up to the insurgents, but rather Michael VII abdicated ( 3 April 1078 ). Alexis then tried in vain to convince Constantine Ducas, brother of Michael, to accept the throne at the refusal of the latter, he supported Botaneiats Nicephorus. This, too happy for this support which delivers the capital, and eagerly accepts the throne under the name of Nicephorus III, marrying the wife of Michael VII, Empress Maria of Alania. However, it hopes to preserve the rights to the throne of his son Constantine and seeking a protector in the person of Alexis making him, by adopting it officially in spring 1078, the brother of his son, age 4. It is more than likely a connection between Alexis and Mary of Alania, renowned for her beauty, comes to 1078 , especially as the woman at the time Alexis has a dozen years.

Alexis finally crushed the uprising Nicephorus Bryennius through the use of Turkish mercenaries (Spring 1078). Bryennius was taken to Constantinople and blinded by order of Nicephorus III. But a third competitor, Basilakios Nicephorus , who had succeeded as Duke of Nicephorus Bryennius Dyrrachium rises in turn and seized in Macedonia and Thessaloniki (Spring / Summer 1078 ). This is Alexis, helped Tatikios , which is charged by Nicephorus III to end the insurgency. Basilakios is defeated by guile and delivered by his own men. He is blinded when transferred to the capital. Alexis is then allowed to return to the capital with his troops by Nicephorus III and obtained the dignity of redfish.

The takeover

Alexius Comnenus was initially regarded with honor by the new emperor and his family. The older brother of Alexis, Isaac back from Antioch in the summer of 1078, is also called redfish. Married to a cousin of the Empress Maria of Alania , it is the imperial palace and became close to the emperor. The advanced age of Nicephorus III triggers ambitions: those of Alexis and his brother Isaac, supported by their mother Anne Dalassena, but also that of John Doukas, who has two grandchildren, son, Michael and John, who can claim the throne. Maria of Alania, finally, has not renounced the empire to his son Constantine. Alexis remains the most serious contender: it is both allied to Doukas by marriage, adopted by Mary of Alania and especially General prestigious relay with many in the military.

The situation becomes extremely critical to the empire with the installation of the Seljuk Sultan Soleiman at Nicaea in 1078 and a threatened invasion of the Empire by Robert Guiscard and his Normans. Nicephorus III is committing an initial blunder by stripping its imperial attributes the young Constantine Doukas, earning the hatred of the empress. A conspiracy is formed between it and the brothers Comnenus. Alexis brought troops to the capital. When informed, the arrest and decides Nicephorus the blindness of the latter and his brother, but Mary of Alania prevents Comnenus.

On the night of 14 February 1081 , Alexis made contact with General Gregory Pakourianos and Constantine Humbertopoulos and received their support, then he leaves the capital and traveled to Schiza. It receives support, decisive on the financial front, the Caesar John Doukas, head of the family. Meanwhile, in Constantinople, the women of the Comnenus family are locked in a monastery. At Schiza, Alexis is then proclaimed emperor after his older brother, Isaac, was deleted in its favor. We have to see the will of the clan which originated Doukas's wife Alexis. Finally, it is Isaac himself who his brother slippers shoes purple, imperial insignia par excellence. He second with efficiency until his death (circa 1104 ).

Alexis then marched on the capital which he is registered. However, Nicephorus Botaneiats has troops not negligible, especially elite corps of mercenaries that are Varanges and Chomatnoi . In addition, the Senate and people of Constantinople are hostile to Alexis. Finally, the bulk of troops from Asia Minor supports another pretender to the throne, Nicephorus Mlissnos , which seizes Damalis , opposite the capital. It is mainly with the support of the troops 'European' as well as auxiliary Turks , Alexis besieging the capital. Several unsuccessful attacks make him realize that the easiest way is to circumvent some of the defenders, often foreign mercenaries. Alexis rallied to his cause the head of Nmitzoi (German mercenaries) who guards the door of Adrianople , and enters the Holy Thursday ( April ^1, 1081 ) in Constantinople. Part of the town was pillaged by mercenaries of Alexis before it regains control of its troops. Nicephorus Alexis offers a power-sharing but, under the influence of the Patriarch Kosmas , he finally abdicated and retired to a monastery. Alexis quickly dismisses the latest pretender, Nicephorus Mlissnos, which proposed a partition of the empire, granting him the dignity of Caesar and the city of Thessaloniki.

The statesman

It is a young man who comes to power but who has already had a long military experience whose success has depended for most of his diplomatic skills than his military qualities. Small, it generates a certain charisma to him (note that later chroniclers of the First Crusade ) and a perfect self-control. Little cruel nature of his two predecessors end their lives on a bishop's throne (Michael VII), the other in a monastery (Nicephorus III) , however it is able to use cunning and even terror when the situation requires. By marrying Irene Doukas he allied himself with one of the largest families of the empire which reinforces his throne but his whole life, and even on his deathbed, he was forced to thwart the intrigues and conspiracies of the Byzantine aristocracy and his family circle. So his mother, a woman described as domineering and possessive, feels a strong hatred towards the new Empress and her clan hatred shared by Mary of Alania , wife of Michael VII , of Nicephorus III Botaneiats Alexis and probable mistress before his accession the throne . To limit the risk of theft, Alexis practice a clever policy of matrimonial alliances. Her eldest daughter, Anne , wife and Constantine Doukas (son of Michael VII and Maria of Alania), then after the death of it, Bryennius Nicephorus , the son of the rebel Dyrrachium.

The financial recovery

The situation of the empire in 1081 is dramatic. In the Balkans, the Byzantines faced the Normans of Robert Guiscard and the invasions of Pechenegs. Peoples Slavs in Serbia and Dalmatia are in dissent . The Cilicia , populated by waves of Armenian migration is quasi-independent and is torn between the fratricidal struggles of several kings. Moreover, the loss of the Anatolian deprives the emperor significant tax revenues and the old system of tax revenue has collapsed. One of the first challenges that tackles Alexis ^I. So is the financial problem. The means used by the emperor to bring in money are not very popular but effective. The population is taxed to the limit of endurance, some property of nobles and the Church were confiscated, the court sentences are frequently fines rather than imprisonment. Alexius ^I finally took two major decisions that prove catastrophic in the long term it provides enormous business benefits to Venice by chrysobull of 1082 , to the detriment of Byzantine trade itself, which at first gives it the The alliance of the powerful fleet of the City of the Doges, and it devalues the currency imperial for seven centuries had been the only stable currency of the Mediterranean basin. This policy allows Alexis to put up an effective administration, to recreate a real army and navy and even maintain a sumptuous court.

Danger Norman ( 1,081 - 1085 )

In foreign policy, the challenge confronting Alexis is knowing how opponent fight cons first. The calculation is then made that the fight against the Turks assumed an effort over the long term it is not yet able to perform but the infighting temporarily weaken the Seljuks. So he chose at first to repel the attack Normandy. Robert Guiscard and his troops just seized of Avlona and besieged Durazzo since summer 1081. Robert justified his intervention by his desire to restore the throne on the ex-emperor Michael VII, with whom he had signed an alliance in 1074 . Its numbers are between 10 000 and 15 000 men . Alexis when he seized power immediately replaced the Duke of Durazzo, George Monomachos , reliability doubtful, by her step-brother George Palaeologus who organizes the defense immediately. The Venetian fleet, allied to the Byzantines, inflicts a severe defeat on the Normans in July 1081 which lifted the siege sea but not the registered land.

In October the same year Alexis comes with an army whose main body is composed Varangian Guard, essentially Anglo-Saxons but also recruits many Turkish mercenaries. Alexis pushes the advice of his experienced generals who advise a war of harassment and attack immediately Robert Guiscard. The battle is long but ultimately uncertain Alexis is severely beaten and forced to flee the battlefield, abandoning the imperial tent . Dyrrachium falls in February 1082 , after opening its doors to the Normans. Robert Guiscard and control the Via Egnatia , which opened the road to Thessaloniki and especially Constantinople.

It is in these tragic circumstances that will measure the ability of that Alex always has several irons in the fire. This military disaster is actually quickly offset by a skillful diplomatic policy. Anne says Alexis Comnenus had fortified "areas located in front of Robert and before him, but he had not neglected either to speak behind him. A comparison is conducted with the Emperor Henry IV in struggle with Pope Gregory VII and his allies Norman . The Holy Roman Emperor intervenes militarily to Rome in May 1081 and again in spring 1082. Alexis also supports the claim of the nephews of Robert Abagelard and Herman , who compete for the inheritance of Humphrey of Hauteville , his older brother. Part of Puglia , rise against Robert early 1082. Finally and most importantly Alexis strengthens its alliance with Venice. It is within this difficult context for the empire he must understand the significant trade privileges obtained by the Venetians with chrysobull May 1082. Venice, aided by a Byzantine fleet, won the spring of 1082 a second naval success on the Normans.

These events forced to leave Robert Guiscard in Italy in April 1082 with some of its troops. He left his son Bohemond in Greece. It plunges into Byzantine territory and Alexis rushed to try to stop the march of the invader. He was defeated in Ioannina (May 1082) and again in Arta (July 1082) and returns (August 1082) to Constantinople rebuild an army. However, Bohemond besieged Larissa for 6 months, which leaves time for Alex to hire many mercenaries including more than 7,000 Turkish. He also managed to poach some officers Bohemond. In late summer 1083 he began a campaign of ambushes. He manages a ploy to bring out the cavalry Bohemond seat of Larissa and the foot soldiers of killing his opponent. The Norman soldiers are discouraged and are no longer paid. It is thus easy to Alexis to make them switch allegiances. Bohemond Avlona and then returned to Italy to find money to pay his troops.

Robert Guiscard, however, does not give up. He arrived in Greece again in 1084 with a large fleet and an army well equipped. After an initial failure facing the Venetians Robert won wide acclaim opposite Corfu and seized the island. But the death of Guiscard in July 1085 and the succession struggle that erupts between his heirs, free empire of great danger. Norman troops returned to Italy and the imperial authority was restored in the western provinces of the empire.

Alexis policy against the Turks ( 1 085 - 1092 )

The decline of Byzantium in Asia Minor

In Asia Minor, where the Byzantine Empire was terribly deteriorated since the defeat of the Seljuk Turks Manzikert face in 1071. Turkish is the principal leader Ibn Soleiman Qoutloumouch. It is mandated by the Sultan Malik Shah ^I. to prosecute the war against the Byzantines and acquired its task with such vigor that almost all of Anatolia to Constantinople is lost. This is made possible for several reasons. Since the reign of Basil II large families live mostly in Constantinople. There is therefore no local system of defense against the Turks, who unlike the Arabs wish to settle in Anatolia, on the model of the castle in Western Europe . The defense of this land is left to the emperor. Moreover, the incessant rebellions against the emperor after the end of the Macedonian dynasty, and the use of Turkish mercenaries, promote the advance of these. Soleiman in 1082 and supports the attempt to Nicephorus Mlissnos. When it submits to Alexis Soleiman grabbed Nicaea , a part of Bithynia and some cities of Phrygia and refuses to surrender. Nice even became the official capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Anatolia. From one thousand and eighty-four / 1 085 the last territories under Byzantine control in Asia came under Turkish suzerainty except some areas of coastal Asia Minor ( Propontis ). Thus the Turks captured the great city of Antioch ( 13 December 1084 ) and the cities of Melitene and Edessa shortly after, populated by Armenians for the most part. Only Trebizond on the north coast of the Black Sea , Byzantine remains,

Alexis policy against the Turks

When he became emperor Alexis faces a choice. What enemy combat first, the Normans or the Turks ? Contrary to Robert Guiscard, whose objective is clearly Constantinople, the Turks do not seem yet imperial design and represent the eyes of Alexis danger less pressing. Also, we have seen above, is it the choice of defending the western part of the empire. For that it takes an intense diplomatic activity to buy peace with the Seljuks in order to devote himself to war against the Normans and does not hesitate to recruit mercenaries in its own Turkish troops. He managed to regain Damalis , a promontory situated opposite Constantinople across the Bosphorus.

Policy against the Turks Alexis is very consistent, "divide and conquer." Death in 1086 the principal chief of Turkey, Suleiman Ibn Qoutloumouch , who came to Antioch and marched on Aleppo , killed by a rival throws confusion among the Turks of Anatolia and is helping the emperor. The various subordinates Soleiman go independent and Nicaea and have 6 years in the hands of a rebel, Abul Qasim , and not until 1092 , shortly before his death, Malik Shah ^I. manages to restore the son of Soleimani, Kl Arslan ^I.. Alexis takes this confusing situation to regain Cyzicus and signed an assistance treaty with Abul Qasim (c. 1086 ) . Alexis receives proposals alliances Malik Shah ^I. himself (then the greatest ruler of the Muslim world) at least twice. In 1086, when he negotiates with Abul Qasim (who feared the intervention of the sultan and is close to Byzantium for that reason) and then to 1091/1092. At that time Malik Shah tries to get rid of his brother Tutuch , which governs Antioch, and restore the son of Ibn Soleiman Qoutloumouch at Nicaea. He proposed to Alexis restitution cities of Bithynia and bridge and a marriage between Anne Comnenus and his eldest son.

The killing of Malik Shah in 1092 leads to abandon the project. But Alexis is facing a new adversary potentially more dangerous, the Turkish emir Smyrna , Tzakhas

The fight against Tzakhas

Indeed, the Turkish emir Smyrna , Tzakhas , tries to unite both the wrens in the Turkish part of an alliance and becomes master, between 1080 and 1090 , the Aegean coast and islands of Lesbos , Chios , Samos and Rhodes with the complicity of many Greeks who are the backbone of its naval power. Alexis just recreate a fleet defeats him in the Marmara Sea, but it is cleared from danger in suggesting Kl Arslan, who was married to 1092, the daughter of Tzakhas, the murder of his stepfather This is done in 1093 during a banquet at Nicaea . Alexis does not get much for the possessions of Tzakhas at least not right away and must wait for the Battle of Dorylaeum and assistance of the Crusaders to drive the son Tzachi.

Danger Pechenegs ( 1 086 - in 1091 )

One of the factors that explain the relative passivity of Alexis in the years 1086/1092 against the Turks is real and immediate threat posed by Pechenegs on the Danube frontier. This people of Turkish origin is pushed south by the Russians. When in 1083 Alex decided to expel the leaders Paulicians , a dualistic sect established in Thrace and considered heretical, some dealing with the Pechenegs, living at the time the north-east of present Bulgaria , and begin a series incursions. An armed expedition headed by the servant of the West Gregory Pakourianos was defeated at the Battle of Bliatova January 1086 and grabbed the Pechenegs Thrace in 1086 or 1087 with the help of Hungarian. The Byzantines were defeated at Silistra in 1087 by an opponent more and better organized .

But discord between sets and Coumans Patzinaks about the importance of the battle spoils and Alexis took the opportunity to negotiate a peace with the former. He fears an alliance between the two peoples. This peace is a fiction and Patzinaks resume rapidly their incursions into Thrace. In spring 1089 they massacred about 300 to Charioupolis archontopouloi what is felt in Constantinople as a major disaster.

Pechenegs in 1091, occupied the region of Gallipoli and allies with the Seljuk and especially Tzakhas / A> in February. This alliance, which is potentially fatal to the empire fails by internal divisions and the Turks through the diplomatic skill of which combines with Alexis Coumans nearly 40,000 newly arrived in the footsteps of Patzinaks. That's when Alexis skillfully uses his favorite weapon of diplomacy. It loosens the alliance Coumans Pecheneg by a clever political gifts and a memorable banquet. Coumans then combine the Byzantine troops and crush the Pechenegs 29 April 1091 . The number of prisoners is such that the Byzantines feared a revolt of the latter. Many then probably murdered with the tacit approval of Alexius Comnenus well as Anne tries to avoid liability.

Alexius ^I was then finally released threats to its northern border and can devote themselves entirely to the struggle against the Seljuks.

Relations with the West

Diplomatic relations with Alexis ^I. Western countries of Europe are initially fairly conflicting. Pope Gregory VII had maintained good relations with Michael VII , and after the deposition of it in 1078 , immediately excommunicated his successor Nicephorus III. This extends excommunication in April 1081 the new emperor, Alexius ^I. This last attempt in June 1081 and reconnect to have the support of the Pope against the companies Robert Guiscard but that his letters are answered. The Emperor Henry IV , in conflict with the pope, listens more attentively to the ambassadors of Alexius and the subsidies that the Byzantine emperor pays. Alexis, in retaliation for the attitude of Gregory VII, closed Latin churches in Constantinople. The latter's death in 1085 was greeted with relief . The election in March 1088 on the papal throne of Eudes of Lagery under the name of Urban II makes a marked improvement in diplomatic relations. At odds with the Normans of Sicily and Henry IV, he cleverly manages to increase its political and spiritual. In 1095 his authority is substantial.

Urban II wanted to renew contact with Eastern Christianity and began negotiations with Alexis, under the close supervision of Roger of Sicily, who succeeded his brother Robert Guiscard but is not interested in the conquest of the Byzantine Empire. In September 1089 Pope Urban II officially lift the ban of excommunication against Alexius Comnenus in the presence of the ambassadors of it. The same month opened a synod in Constantinople and notes, appropriately, that the pope's name was omitted from the diptychs of the Church by some non-canonical decision, but probably for lack of attention . The Patriarch of Constantinople Nicolas III wrote to Urban II, and give him a period of 18 months to ship a letter systat to repair this omission. Reconciliation with the papacy is a success necessary to Alexis who leaves, for realism, the Greek religious in Italy as the Roman Archbishop of Rossano and Metropolitan of Trani concerned about encroachment on their territories of the pope and who support the anti-pope Guibert Ravenna.

Although Urban II, not wishing to deal with questions of Byzantine theology, does not send a letter systat good relations are restored. In 1090 , a Byzantine embassy brings a message of friendship to the pope. Certainly the theological controversies continue , but muted.

The First Crusade

A paradoxical situation

The situation for Alexius ^I in the mid-1090 is paradoxical. Seljuk power seems to wane. Sultan Malik Shah ^I. died in 1092 and his death leads to a succession war that deeply divided the Turks. Malik Shah's successor, his brother Tutuch , died in turn in 1095 leaving two son, brothers, enemies, conquer one of Aleppo ( Ridwan ) the other on Damascus ( Dukakis ). Heads Turks and Kurds settle in Iraq and Syria. Kerbogha , the atabeg of Mosul , the country gradually nibbles Ridwan. The Fatimids gradually implanted in the south of Palestine and closer to Jerusalem where govern Ortoqides. Finally, a Shiite clan, the Banu Ammar expands at Tripoli. For Alexis, so there is a real opportunity to regain a foothold in Anatolia and Syria, especially since it restored the Byzantine rule over the Balkans and the Ionian coast. But the weakness of the Byzantines is the army whose numbers are still too weak and inexperienced with the exception of mercenaries whose reliability is sometimes questionable. Alexis, who has to keep significant numbers in the Balkans and the Danube frontier, thus needs more recruits if it wishes to take the offensive against the Turks. His policy of reconciliation with the pope is useful if it allows to use the influence thereof to enlist new recruits. Especially since in the past Western lords have already come to fight alongside the Byzantines . Thus Plenipotentiary Byzantines are asked to speak at the Council of Piacenza convened by Pope Urban II in March 1095, shortly before his departure for France and Clermont. We do not know the details of their speech but they seem to focus on the hardships suffered by Eastern Christians and the need to enlist under the banner of imperial order to expel the "infidels." This intervention marks strongly Urban II calls upon Christians who listen to take an oath to go and help the empire of Constantinople . More in a general context of decline of Islam in Europe ( Spain , Sicily ), the Pope is considering a broader purpose than simply sending mercenaries to Alexius ^I, he now thinks a "holy war" .

Calling Clermont

At the Council of Clermont , convened for 24 November 1095 , Urban II calls his listeners to use their forces to defend their brethren in the East of abuse victims that they impose the Muslims. It is also not a new project. Gregory VII had made a similar point in the defeat of Mantzikert but was abandoned after the deposition of Michael VII. When the Pope left Clermont December 2, yet it ignores the success that will have its appeal in all of Europe and has sparked a movement whose impact on Christendom and Byzantium are incalculable.

Alexis ^I. prepares for the arrival of the Crusaders

In 1096 , Alexis is in a period of calm rather unusual in the complex history of the Empire. He just inflicted a crushing defeat in Coumans and has stabilized its Danube border for long. But the information it receives from Europe are worrying. These are not troops reduced, without much difficulty be incorporated into his army, which come from the West but real armies. If one believes Anne Comnenus , the emperor and the court heard that "All the West and all the tribes of barbarians beyond the Adriatic , to the Pillars of Hercules were moving towards the Asia across the Europe bringing with them whole families. . Alexis seems that fear is an attack on his capital whose wealth can excite the envy of the West. Furthermore it is clear that a first shipment consisted of unorganized bands (the popular crusade ) before the crusade manor. The idea of an attack on Constantinople seems to have been chosen by the imperial that does not forget the recent attempts of Bohemond of Taranto few years earlier, which Bohemond part in the crusade.

Alexis, however, does not lose its composure. To prevent looting it is necessary to feed the Crusader armies. He also develop deposits of funds in the great cities of the empire. It also organizes units to guide the movement of Western troops to avoid overflow. The nephew of Alexius, John Comnenus, governor of Durazzo was ordered to host leaders of the Crusade cordially but to ensure control their every move. Admiral Nikolaos Mavrokatalon is sent into the Adriatic to signal the arrival of French ships.

The People's Crusade

The first bands of the People's Crusade , they "directed" by Walter Sans-Avoir , arrived in the Empire in late May 1096 in the region of Belgrade and after a few incidents, are strictly supervised to Constantinople, where they arrived in August. On June 26 the crusaders , also of the People's Crusade led by Peter the Hermit sacked the city of Belgrade . Nicetas July, the governor of Alexis, who just sent reinforcements, killing a part of the Crusaders before Nish. Eventually the rest of the trip was uneventful but the troops Alexis frame strongly folded. Cleverly, Alexis receives Peter the Hermit, ensures the supply of these undisciplined troops. It is obviously no illusions about the military value of this crusade popular but seeks to limit the risk of looting, to get rid of as quickly as possible. Arriving on ¹ August 1096 at Constantinople , the People's Crusade is transported by the Imperial fleet in Asia on August 6. It is destroyed by the Turks on October 21 near Nicaea .

The Crusade lords

The western lords arrive uncoordinated some time after the failure of the People's Crusade. The first is from the brother of the King of France Philip ^I , Count Hugh of Vermandois. It arrives in early October 1096 in Bari and embarks on Durazzo. He took the precaution of sending an embassy to John Comnenus, the governor of the city, to be received according to his rank. His arrival was eventful as his ship was wrecked but he was greeted with honor by the Byzantines , according to instructions issued by Alexis. Hughes is receiving a warm ... while limiting his freedom of movement

Godfrey of Bouillon Alexis greater concern because its military is substantial and it is fast enough that the establishment of a principality in the East do not mind, if not to Godfrey at least his younger brother Baldwin . Godfrey and his troops pass through Hungary . Alexis, while sending an escort for both the Crusaders and the host monitor, organizing a supply of effective and Germanic troops in Lorraine and the crossing of the Balkan Peninsula is done without disturbances until 12 December 1096. That day the troops of Godfrey devastating for 8 days around Selymbria unless one knows the precise reasons The arrival of Godfrey and a large army problem Alexis ^I.. He has to ensure the allegiance of the crusaders but quickly away from the capital which already has to suffer the transition bands of Peter the Hermit. At first Godfrey refuses allegiance as his overlord is Emperor of Germany which leads Alex to cut off supplies to put pressure on him. Baldwin then pillaged the suburbs of the capital until Alexis to retreat. Godfrey decided to await the other leaders Crusaders before making a decision. In March 1097 new clashes broke out Thursday and April 2 , that of Holy Week , Godfrey attempts to enter the city but was repulsed by the troops of Alexis. This defeat Godfrey reveals his weakness and he took the oath a few days later while his army is transported on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus.

It is time for Alexis since 9 April 1097 , Bohemond of Taranto arrived in Constantinople. The latter wishes to establish a principality in the Levant because in Sicily his ambitions are thwarted by his uncle Roger I of Sicily. His army is smaller than that of Godfrey, but is well equipped and worth a first-class military. Alexis knows it, he has already fought the Normans at the beginning of his reign. The crossing from Greece to the troupe was successful, Bohemond now an iron discipline. For Alexis, the crusader Bohemond is the most dangerous. Soldier poor is a formidable diplomat and a wise policy . He realized, much better than Godfrey and Baldwin, Byzantine recovery, and a direct confrontation would lead the crusade to disaster. He considers it preferable to agree with Alexis (which meets one on one) and ready without hesitation the oath of allegiance to the Basileus . Bohemond's troops are transported by the navy of the Alexis in Asia on April 26. The next day comes a new crusader army led by the Count of Toulouse Raymond IV.

The Count of Toulouse believes he is the only one who can lead the crusade. He has already fought against the Muslims (in Spain ), is the only one who met Urban II and is accompanied by the papal legate, Adhemar de Monteil , Bishop of Puy. Raymond offers the eyes of Alexis contrasts markedly with other leaders of the Crusade. More civilized, more courteous it is considered a reliable and honest man by the Byzantines. This does not preclude Alexis troops to inflict a crushing defeat for the forces of Raymond who robbed the Balkans in April 1097. Raymond refuses to swear allegiance to the emperor and accepts a modified oath in which he undertakes to respect the lives and honor of the emperor and not to try anything against him. Alexis merely the agreement. The relationship between Raymond and Alexius IV warm up quickly as the Emperor soon realizes that he has, with the Count of Toulouse, Bohemond of an ally against the inside of the crusade.

Soon after came the last army of crusaders, led by the Duke of Normandy , Robert II , Stephen of Blois and Count of Flanders, Robert II smoothly special. The oath is sworn to the emperor without any resistance by the leaders of this latest expedition.

Ultimately the management of this Alexis influx of Western lords (between 60 000 and 100 000 men, substantial numbers for the time) is particularly clever. Between 1096 and spring 1097 he was able to accommodate all the Crusader forces, to the supply without the inevitable overflow and marauding take on huge proportions. Furthermore, with the notable exception of Raymond IV of Toulouse, with whom he enters into a special arrangement, the emperor gets an oath of allegiance of the heads of the crusade. It is unlikely that Alexis will do a lot of illusions about the validity of the oath, but it gives him an advantage in case of legal dispute.

The reconquest of Asia Minor

The capture of Nicaea

More than making Jerusalem the objective of Alexis ^I. is the reconquest of Asia Minor on the Turks. The goal is therefore taking Nicaea the Seljuk capital. The Turkish ruler Kl Arslan ^I. just committed the error, after crushing the People's Crusade, go to war against other Muslim rulers to control Melitene . He is so convinced that the Crusaders will not grow until his capital he leaves his wife, his children and his treasure.

The crusader army gathered in Plkan it leaves the 26 April 1097 to Nicomedia. She crossed the gorge where the People's Crusade was massacred. Godfrey of Bouillon, on the advice of Alexis, and advance cautiously reaches the Nicene 6 May 1097. On May 13 arrives Bohemond and his Normans, then the May 16 Raymond of Toulouse and the June 3 soldiers of the Duke of Normandy. Alexis himself landed at Plkan to keep in contact with both the capital (if things go wrong) and power in case of victory, to Nicaea under Byzantine administration. On June 21 Kl Arslan ^I. arrives with his army but can not force the device cross. He quickly realizes that open ground troops are no match for the Crusaders defeat and withdrew to the mountains, leaving the city to its fate.

However the Crusaders find that the city is well protected and that the seat could even drag that the blockade is incomplete the city being resupplied by the lake Askanios. The Crusaders then request the intervention of Alexis. It looks likely now to show that its cooperation is essential. It sends ground troops led by Generals Tatikios and Tzitas , and provides a fleet to block the lake, led by Manuel Boutoumits. The garrison then understands that the situation is desperate, and enter into negotiations with the emperor (via Boutoumits). On 19 June morning the Crusaders were therefore surprised to see the imperial flag floating over the city. Alexis gets Nicaea and skillfully without the city suffer the brutal consequences of a sacked, especially as most people are Christians. If the Chiefs Crusaders meet the situation this is not the case of frustrated troops looting. Alexis anticipate any movement of discontent replenishing the crusade and widely distributing a portion of the treasure of Kl Arslan. Alexis then took the opportunity to ask the allegiance of the lords of second rank, he gets, and that of Tancred. He agrees after a violent altercation with his uncle Bohemond.

The generous treatment of prisoners by Alexis Turks surprised and shocked many crusaders. The Basileus authorized officers and employees to buy their freedom and receives Constantinople Kl Arslan family with royal honors before returning to the sultan.

The victory of Dorylaeum

On 26 June, a week after the fall of Nicaea, the crusade resumed his journey. Alexis is careful to append a contingent led by Byzantine Tatikios. Kl Arslan allied with his opponents Danichmendides and attempts an ambush near the Dorylaeum ¹ July 1097 on the vanguard cross led by Bohemond. The arrival in the day of the rest of the army is transforming the battle failed to Turks who abandon their camp.

Tatikios then advised to take the road south of Anatolia less dangerous. However relations between the Byzantines, the Crusaders who blame their ingratitude and disobedience, and the "Franks, who fear a betrayal of the Byzantines, still fresh .

Alexis enjoys the victory Dorylaeum and walking the crusade to Antioch to strengthen the Byzantine presence in western Asia Minor. He finds, not without fear that the defeat is to reconcile the Seljuk Turks and Danichmendides is creating considerable power. Building on its navy ships the Caesar John Doukas , his brother-in regaining the Ionia and Phrygia. A simple show of force because of the emirate of Smyrna where the son of Tzakhas goes if they have survived. Admiral Byzantine Kaspax reoccupied the islands of the Aegean in the emirate while John Doukas seizes major cities Lydian ( Sardis , Philadelphia , Laodicea ). In late 1097 the Byzantine control on Lydia and John Doukas total is preparing to enter into Phrygia to restore control of the empire on the road south (towards Attalia ) and then to the Armenian principalities in the mountains of Taurus c that is to say the road to Antioch.

Antioch

The Crusaders come to Antioch 21 October 1097 . Bohemond, impressed by the size and power walls decided to make his fiefdom. He has the example of Alexis at Nicaea and decides that the city must go alone so that his claims are difficult to challenge. But the siege lasted long and famine settled. The departure for Cyprus of Tatikios (February 1098), representative of Alexis, he justifies departure by announcing that he must return to imperial territory to organize a better supply, is operated by Bohemond immediately. As the representative of the emperor left the army, the crusade feels liberated from any obligation to Alexis. This of course means that we must not give him the city of Antioch. The arrival on 4 March 1098 of siege material posted by Alexis does not change the mindset of Westerners. Bohemond finally manages to deliver to the city by treachery 3 June 1098. But on June 7 a Muslim army led by Kerbogha turn besieged crusaders in Antioch.

The only chance of salvation for the Crusaders is the arrival of the Emperor Alexius. The latter, after the reconquest of southern Asia Minor by John Doukas (late 1097 / early 1098 ), took the head of his army and rose to Antioch. But he meets along the way to Philomlion near Attaleia, Stephen of Blois , one of the leaders of the Crusade who fled the siege of Antioch on June 2 just before the storming of the city, and it indicates that Turks have certainly destroyed the crusade. Alexis has no reason to doubt the account of Stephen of Blois and it appears to continue its offensive against the dangerous Turks he imagines intoxicated by victory. He learns more than the Turkish troops concentrated in the Upper Euphrates. The risk of being squeezed by two Turkish armies seemed important. Alexis meets its officers and its board and announced that he is retired and just significant territorial gains achieved so far. A half-brother Bohemond, serving the Emperor for years, Guy, asks Alexis to continue, believing there is still time to save the crusade but Alexis remains intractable and the Byzantine army moves north .

That decision, for the remainder of the Crusades, a considerable impact. In the short term it suits the ambitions of Bohemond who takes advantage to claim more forcefully the possession of Antioch. In the long term this decision to the crusaders Alexis reinforces the sense of distrust of Byzantine Orthodox. The Crusaders' victory on Kerbogha the June 28 , immediately raises the issue of devolution of the city. Initially the ambassadors are sent to the fury of Bohemond, prevent Alexis and ask to take control of the city. But the news of the departure of Alexis comes shortly after the Crusaders. In their view this is equivalent to an overlord who fails to fulfill obligations of assistance. The prevailing opinion among the Crusaders was that the Emperor was stripped of his rights in the city and they themselves are released from their oath to Alexius.

Alexis sends However in March 1099 an embassy to demand the return of the city. In vain. Alexis offers to come in person to participate in the reconquest of Jerusalem , but the Crusaders refused (with the notable exception of Raymond de Saint Gilles ). The Count of Toulouse is the only leader crossed maintain good relations and special relationship with Alexis . It makes the Byzantines and the city of Laodicea (February 1099) he was the protector since the summer of 1098 . Alexis seeks in effect to regain control of the ports of Cilicia and Syria in the north. For this he sends troops from Cyprus. Came a fleet of Pisa plunders the beginning of 1099 the Ionian islands before being defeated by the fleet of nearly Alexis Rhodes. The survivors of the fleet while trying to capture with the help of Laodicea Bohemond. Raymond de Saint Gilles quickly returns to Jerusalem and Bohemond force to lift the siege.

The failure of Raymond de Saint Gilles

At the beginning of the year 1100 two noblemen therefore share Western Northern Syria: Antioch Bohemond and Raymond of St. Gilles, which controls Laodicea "in the name of the emperor." It is certain that Alexis is counting on to quote Raymond Antioch to Bohemond. An opportunity presents itself with the arrival in Constantinople of a new crusade. Raymond went in haste (June 1100) to Constantinople where he is given the command of the Crusaders . He takes the oath a second time to Alexis but an oath different from that of 1097. It is no longer to return to the Byzantine Empire regained the ancient lands (with the exception of Antioch) but rather to establish an independent state, headed by Raymond, under Byzantine suzerainty. This new crusade, made up largely of the Lombards , the Normans and French (one finds Stephen of Blois ) borrows against the advice of Alexis, the road north-eastern Anatolia. It appears that the intent displayed by some of its leaders or the release of Bohemond captured shortly before by the Turks (August 1100) danichmendides and held in Cappadocia in Sivas. The Crusaders were defeated by the Turks various emirs of the region. Raymond de Saint Gilles and Stephen of Blois yet came to escape and reach the capital of the Empire (September 1101 ). Alexis is at first angry against Raymond, who fled in battle but soon became reconciled with him. The Count of Toulouse remained some time in Constantinople before returning to Syria.

In fact the nephew of Bohemond, Tancred of Hauteville , the Byzantines resumed Laodicea (1102) and seized some villages of Cilicia. Raymond de Saint Gilles tries in vain to seize the city again and sign a treaty with the Normans Tancred which recognizes the possession of Antioch and Laodicea. The Count of Toulouse then seizes Tortosa before going further south to besiege Tripoli which he wishes to make his capital. However his failure, and that of Alexis, facing Bohemond and Tancred is obvious. Antioch is the Norman and Raymond is no longer able to play northern Syria to its competitor. Alexis however dissociates its bad relations with Bohemond of its relations with the Crusaders. Thus he obtained against ransom, the release of the Franks who had been captured at the Battle of Ramla in May 1102.

The Treaty of Devol

However, Alexis is trying a new intervention in 1103. Thus Laodicea is taken over by a Byzantine expeditionary force while the towns of Cilicia revolt against the Normans. Bohemond (liberated by the Turks in May 1103) and Tancred did not have the manpower to hold the principality and Alexis has a mastery of the sea Bohemond then decided to go to Italy (January 1105) where he raises an army Normans. He then went to France and seeks to develop a crusade against Alexis. He says the emperor has betrayed the Crusaders at Antioch and the crusade of 1101. These lies meet a broad echo in the West. Alexis diplomatic letters, found in 1099 in the luggage of Fatimid sultan of Egypt, with whom he has excellent relations, after the battle of Ascalon in the eyes of the Crusaders prove collusion between Alexis and the Muslim princes. That is why the captives of Ramla, released by Alexis, are filled with gifts by the emperor before being returned to Europe in order to refute the slanders of Bohemond.

The latter receives the blessing of Pope Paschal II for a crusade against Byzantium. He married Constance , daughter of the King of France Philip ^I and wins the hand of Cecile de France , another daughter of Philip, remained in Antioch Tancred. On 9 October 1107 Bohemond arrived in Avlona in Epirus with a large army on 13 he then laid siege to Durazzo. Quickly turns into disaster shipping. Alexis, based on the alliance with Venice manages to cut the communications of its opponent with Italy. Then it blocks the mountain passes isolating the army of his opponent while refueling. Famine threatens troops rapidly Norman. Alexis took the opportunity to buy so many Norman barons to whom he distributed largesse and honors. From September 1108 to open negotiations and a direct meeting between Alexis and Bohemond occurs .

The Treaty of Devol (September 1108) specifies that Bohemond himself recognizes the vassal of the emperor to Antioch. Bohemond may not enter into new alliances with the consent of the emperor . Bohemond promises military support against any enemy of Alexis in Europe and Asia. It also promises to deal with enemy Tancred if it rejects the treaty. Bohmond reoit en change un fief constitu d'Antioche, du port de Saint-Symonmais un fief en viager qui doit retourner Alexis aprs la mort de Bohmond. Ce dernier est donc, selon les clauses de ce trait inspir directement des pratiques occidentales et non byzantines, la fois le lieutenant de l'empereur et son vassal. Le littoral de Cilicie revient l'empire. En thorie la conclusion de ce trait l'empire retrouve la suzerainet de toute la Syrie du nord et sur l'ensemble des tats croiss l'exception du royaume de Jrusalem. Parmi les signataires du trait figurent les reprsentants du roi de Hongrie , Coloman , beau-pre du fils d'Alexis Jean ainsi que de nombreux conseillers d'Alexis, tel Marinos Napolits (originaire de Naples ) a href = "% Pierre_d 27Alipha & action = edit & RedLINK = 1" class = "new" title = "Peter of aliphatic (non-existent page)"> Pierre d 'Aliph and Roger Franc. This phenomenon reflects the Westernization of the court Alexis live and work for the emperor of the Lombards and Italians in the south and many Normans including family Bohemond ^{The final failure of Alexis in Syria}

By the Treaty of Devol Alexis hopes to have ended the issue of Antioch by Bohemond's bid, especially since it considers that it showed restraint. But Tancred de Hauteville who actually governs the city for nearly 10 years in the name of his uncle did not hear well. Its purpose is not, as Bohemond, to capture the Byzantine throne but to impose the Norman domination in northern Syria. Bohemond's departure for Europe, following the signing of the Treaty leaves her hands free because it has not ratified. So in 1108 he resumed, with the help of a squadron of Pisa, the city of Laodicea then grabs (in 1109 ) the cities of Cilicia , in particular Mamistra , admittedly helped by the inability of the commander in chief the army of the East, Armenian Aspits. Alexis sends an embassy and proposes a negotiation, to no avail.

At the end of 1108 the balance of the intervention is crossed, for the empire, rather ambiguous. While Alexis was able to repel the Turks and take over the western Asia Minor (Smyrna Nicaea and in particular) but northern Syria remains independent and any idea of Byzantine suzerainty over the Crusader states remains chimerical. Alexis proves unable to help and Bertrand , son of Raymond de Saint Gilles-cons the set of Tancred and William Jordan. It is the king of Jerusalem Baldwin ^I of Jerusalem to Tripoli which, after taking the city in 1109 convene a blanket rule that the solemn question of sharing the land crossed. So the king of Jerusalem who has the role of lord and arbiter on all states of the Latin East, not the emperor.

Alexis was not discouraged, however, it has a limited scope. It attempts to forge alliances against Tancred, including with Muslim leaders . He intends to 1111 a military expedition but is dissuaded by his council. It then attempts to isolate the Norman by intense diplomatic activity. In fall 1111 an embassy led by Michel Boutoumits is sent to Bertrand , with large sums of money. The aim is to persuade other leaders crossed the merits of an attack against Tancred . But the Count of Tripoli became the vassal of the king of Jerusalem Baldwin I ^st and the latter, although willing to maintain cordial relations with Constantinople, does not want a restoration of imperial authority in Antioch close to his kingdom. The embassy reached Constantinople without having achieved anything (Summer 1112). This failure may explain the intense diplomatic activity with Alexis Italian republics to find new allies and especially to prevent a new crusade like that Bohemond was introduced in 1107/1108.

The use of the Italian republics and the Papacy

The relationship between Pisa and the Empire during this period are conflicting. Since 1099 the Italian city, and that of Genoa , regularly plundered the coasts of the empire and at least twice the Pisan argued the Normans during the sieges of Laodicea (1099 and 1108). That is why Alexis is seeking a diplomatic agreement and start negotiations towards 1109 / 1110.

In October 1111 Alexis publishes chrysobull granting trade privileges to Pisa and a position which is second only to Venice. The latter remains an ally of the emperor but he is clearly trying to balance this agreement by its relations with the Italian republics. Byzantium will not hinder the march of pilgrims visiting the Holy Land on the Pisan ships while the city recognized the suzerainty of Alexis' from Dalmatia to Alexandria "and take an oath of loyalty that makes shared a vassal of the empire. This is a huge success for Alexis because vis--vis the message is clear Venice, Dalmatia is an integral part of the empire (virtual control all the time). Understanding Alexandria in the agreement is certainly a fiction (the city belongs to the Muslim world) but shows the emperor's will not renounce its claims on Syria, Palestine and Egypt. Pisa agreement is primarily economic, but relations with the king of Jerusalem Baldwin of Boulogne are fresh on the conflict between him and the patriarch of Pisa Dagobert which is a likely factor in the rapprochement with Byzantium .

It is plausible that this alliance between Byzantium and Pisa was not well regarded by Venice. Still, in 1112 a Venetian embassy, headed by the Patriarch of Venice itself, is received at Constantinople to persuade the emperor to allow the most serene republic extend its hold on Dalmatia . Although Alexis also claims this region can not afford to quarrel with his powerful ally and gives a tentative agreement, leaving open the question of sovereignty over the province final .

Meanwhile Alexis negotiates with Pope Paschal II. He hopes to reconcile him and the barons of southern Italy in his plans against Tancred and Antioch). But the condition imposed by the Pope , the Byzantine recognition of papal primacy, is excessive, and Alexis knows the eyes of the Byzantine clergy and people of the empire. A new embassy is sent to Paschal II and 1117 without that we know its exact contents or its results but it is likely that this relates to the claim of Alexis on the Crusader states and the question of church union.

The last few years.

In 1113 it seems that Alexis, despite the failure of his embassy to the King of Jerusalem and the pope, but the neutrality of the Italian republics of Pisa and Venice, would like to try an action against Antioch. But now he must return again against the Seljuks. Indeed, the period following the First Crusade allows Alexis to consolidate its positions in western Asia Minor and on its north and south coasts. But he is constantly confronted by the infiltration of Turkish nomads often with herds of sheep and goats, whose presence ruins gradually settled agriculture in these regions. In 1115 Alex won a victory against Malik Shah ^I. Seljuk the Sultanate of Roum to Philomlion but still no tomorrows. The Turks resumed quickly Phrygian Laodicea ( Denizli ) and enter the valley of the Meander. They cut and the track of Attalia. Alexis prepares for a new military expedition when reached by the disease ( 1118 )

It does not give up however, but Antioch is trying a new approach. An embassy is sent to the capital of the principality to negotiate a marriage between his grand-son and heiress of Antioch. The attempt failed but it is a sign that Alexis accepts the facts and the permanent presence of the crusaders in Antioch and northern Syria.

In the Balkans, the situation remains unstable. Infiltrations Coumans require personal intervention in the Alexis area Philippopolis in 1114.

Fight around a dying

Alexius ^I suffered for many years the drop but the first symptoms of the disease will appear to prevail in 1112. Indeed it is preparing to travel to Dyrrachium emissaries to meet with Norman (of Puglia ) when it falls suddenly ill. The severity of her condition made her death fear to the inhabitants of Constantinople and the emperor barely recovered horse must live in the agora. From that moment the struggle for the succession seems open. According Zonaras Alexis would have given his wife Irene of Insurance for possible regency on behalf of his son. No official act after the rapid restoration of Alexis only confirms this but it is true that Irene seems to play a bigger role and she accompanies her husband in several trips. In 1115 Bryennius Nicephorus , the son of Alexis (the husband of Anne Comnenus ) supports the government with the support of Irene Alexis while waging war against the Turks. Back in 1116 what is the emperor's last campaign took to his bed and relies on his wife. It then attempts to disinherit his son John in favor of his son . Jean tries to create a network and receives the support of his brother, named Isaac, and his childhood friend, of Turkish origin, Jean Axouch . It has, however, a significant advantage because he was crowned in the lifetime of his father in 1092 and the latter until the end does not challenge this choice.

In early 1118 Alexis falls ill again. His doctor, Nicolas Kallikles , is concerned about the persistent pain of the emperor on the shoulder. During the summer the Emperor complains of not being able to breathe It is very likely to angina pectoris. Choking is probably due to acute pulmonary edema indicating a severe heart failure The alert of 1112 was probably a first heart attack. In August his condition worsened and Alexis is unable to swallow anything but the porridge. He remains conscious until August 15 before dying in the night of 15 to 16 surrounded by his wife and three daughters .

While his father is the point of death, Anne Comnenus tent, with the help of his mother to disinherit John the benefit of her husband. In vain because Alexis does not return to his choice of 1092 and confirms John giving the imperial ring shortly before he died . The attempt fails too, largely because of the pusillanimity of Nicephorus. Indeed, while Alexis is not dead yet, John, with the help of his brother Alexis, had himself proclaimed emperor by the crowd of his supporters while the palace guard and Nicephorus Bryennius hesitate. This reluctance is in favor of John II, which consolidates its position by appointing his relatives and his main supporters to key positions . The main role is assigned to a childhood friend of Turkish origin, who became Grand Jean Axouch Domestic and army commander. A few days later Anne hatches a new plot against his brother who sits in his home Philopation but it is warned in time by Nicephorus Bryennius itself which definitely did not want to become emperor.

According Nicetas Choniates, Jean Axouch that manages to reconcile the emperor with his sister Anne, which, with her husband, consoles himself for the loss of his ambitions by quieter joys of the historical profession. In general Jean II shows lenient with those who opposed him, once his throne strengthened.

Religious policy Alexis

Alexis Like many of his predecessors has strained relations with the Orthodox Church, especially at the beginning of his reign. Yet he is deeply religious and an emperor who wants the champion of religious orthodoxy. He loves the theological discussion and is not afraid to argue and talk for hours with all those that the Orthodox Church considers heretical, including Muslims. He does not hesitate in 1114 to Philippopolis , as he struggles against an invasion of Coumans, to parley with the long hours Paulicians , many in this region. According to Anne Comnenus he leads a fight apostolic him earn the nickname "thirteenth apostle" , as only Constantine the Great had obtained before him.

It should be noted that the reign of Alexis is a period or overflow heretics reach a point that seems to highlight the eyes of the Church but also of the emperor. The number of trials for heresy reached a level not seen since long. It is therefore necessary for Alexis to give the Church a chandelier in an area to which it devotes traditionally, theology and being one who is dedicated to the salvation of his people by being present on the missionaries and law enforcement fronts. An important witness in this action is the dogmatic Panoply of Euthyme Zigabne , a work commissioned by Alexis himself and that compiles all heresies known at the time.

Relations with the Patriarchs

Relations between the Orthodox hierarchy and the new emperor on the wrong start. Barely able to Alexis, with the support of her mother, is considering divorcing Irene Doukas presumably for the benefit of Mary of Alania. Patriarch Kosmas refused and pushed for Irene will be crowned with her husband. Dalassena Anne , the mother of Alexis can not forgive him and gets his dismissal and his replacement by Eustratios Garidi.

A much more serious crisis erupts, however, just months after his accession to the throne. To find the necessary resources to face the Normans of Robert Guiscard (end 1081) Alexis launches an urgent appeal to his mother and his brother Isaac who governs Constantinople in his absence. Isaac convened a synod, says the urgency of the situation and referring to a law dating back to Justinian orders the seizure of some church property. Isaac meets a weak opposition, and even received the approval of the new patriarch. But the first military failures, and the sight of workers snatching gold and silver at the church doors, drive up the hostility to such measures. A bishop Leo of Chalcedon takes the lead of the contest. To defuse the revolt Alexis promulgates a chrysobull (August 1082 ) in which he promises never to touch the treasures of the Church. Then he met a gathering of senators, major religious leaders (Winter 1083/1084) and gives an accurate account of which withdrawals were made. It further directs the restitution of some monasteries and some churches were looted more (Church of Christ Antiphonts example).

This does not Leo of Chalcedon to continue his campaign, targeting especially the patriarch, a favorite of Anne Dalassena. He accuses the latter of Messalians forcing Alexis to appoint a commission of inquiry. Eustratios Garidi is innocent but he prefers to abdicate in 1084. A new patriarch Nicolas Grammatikos is elected and continues to lead the Patriarchate until 1111. With this latest agreement appears complete at least the early years, and Alexis can extend its intervention in the affairs of the Church to a level rarely reached under his predecessors. So Alexis is involved in a quarrel between the clergy of the capital to the metropolitans and bishops eastern growing in Constantinople because of the Turkish advance in Asia Minor. The synod is thus divided between these two groups. In 1094 , following a contested nomination, the patriarch who does not agree with the members of the Synod refers the matter to the emperor. Alexis slice and supports the appointment. Metropolitan of Ancyra , Nicetas protests and claims (based on the De fide Orthodox Damascene ) that "it was not the case of the emperors to legislate for the Church.." The answer is scathing of Alexis "whoever opposes the imperial decree shall be punished sacrilege" . Henceforth the emperor grants itself the power to intervene and have the last word in case of contested election. Alexis for the return of Caesaropapism is a rebuke to the time when the patriarch Michel Cerularius trying to get rid of his uncle, Isaac I.

The trial of humanism Jean Italos

The trial of John Italos, held early in the reign of Alexis (March / April 1082), the problem of Byzantine society who knows at that time a thriving intellectual and seems ready to topple into the movement rediscovery of the ancient and approach of rational thought that will characterize the West in the late thirteenth century. The takeover of Alexis is so strong that it destroyed the movement. Historian Elisabeth Malamut uses the term "Renaissance aborted."

Italos John is a philosopher of Norman origin and was probably born in Italy. He began a brilliant study in Constantinople and became a close associate of Michel Psellus whom he succeeded as "consul of the philosophers" in the reign of Michael VII. If the reign of the latter is especially disastrous in the political, the court of the sovereign is largely open to intellectuals and religious and philosophical controversies. But even then Italos is struggling to put the theories that profess heresy and rumors about him are persistent. His theories are met by the emperor in nine proposals (without the author is mentioned) and submitted to the synod who believe contrary to fundamental tenets of the Church.

The coming to power in 1081 Alexis lost the philosopher imperial protection. Jean Italos request the new patriarch, Eustratios Garidi , a survey of its orthodoxy A new synod meets or Isaac Comnenus, the emperor's brother, plays a major role. The brilliant defense of Italos seems secure the support of the patriarch but the intervention of a hostile crowd to the philosopher Garidi forced to postpone the matter in the hands of the emperor . Therefore Alexis chair in March 1082 a court that accuses Italos and follower of Arianism and Sabellianism. . The proposals are anathematized and, although these charges were refuted by Italos, he is banned, and his disciples, to teach and take part in any theological debate . The introduction of a bill that contains nine statements attributed to pagan Italos and a tenth on charges of iconoclasm reinforces the accusation even qu'Italos maintains the first nine. Then convened a synod to enforce the decisions taken and Italos, on which the pressures are enormous, is anathematized, the 13 March 1082 (Sunday of Orthodoxy, commemorating the victory over Iconoclasm ) its proposals. It is then permanently exiled.

What is ultimately blamed Italos is to have wanted to integrate the philosophical thinking of ancient times ( Aristotle in particular) in his teaching and his theological reflections . The intellectual trend embodied in the eleventh century by Michel Psellus , Nicetas Byzantios , Mavropous Jean , Jean Xiphilin , and to a lesser extent by Italos, and is characterized by a rediscovery of the works of the ancient benefits from the impetus given by the Emperor Constantine IX ( in 1042 - 1055 ) and the aristocracy which controls the civil power at that time in a phase of relative peace and prosperity (Dynasty Doukas is the most emblematic representative). Many clerics, especially the clergy of St. Sophia, are in close contact with Italos. The hesitations of the patriarch at the beginning of the trial are revealing. The arrival of Alexis ruling reverses the situation. He is the representative of the military aristocracy of Asia, which favors action and advocates of more realistic values, adapted to the difficulties of the time. In the religious sphere Alexis is the defender of strict orthodoxy. Sincere Christian he suffered over the influence of his mother, Anne Dalassena , a devout woman and constantly surrounded by monks, who are generally hostile to the current intellectual played by Italos, and the clergy of St. Sophia. The prophecy of one of them, Cyril Philote on the fate of his son imperial probably influences the behavior of Anne. So Alexis, since childhood, was accompanied by a monk in all circumstances including on the battlefield.

Therefore the case Italos exceeds the personality and ideas of the philosopher. It has been exploited by Alexis proclaims its desire to restore the empire and strict religious orthodoxy. The charges against the disciples of Italos disproportionately affect members of the civil aristocracy, often members of the senate, Alexis suspected of plotting against him and members of the clergy of St. Sophia. But Alexis is also known compromise. Faced with rising discontent among the clergy of the capital it allows five alumni Italos, deacon of St. Sophia, to continue their education once the evidence of their refusal options heretical philosopher has been made. One of them named Eustratios becomes even later, a close spiritual adviser to the emperor. But in a comprehensive manner the action of Alexis has resulted in the complete disappearance of this movement of intellectual renaissance and that for at least three centuries.

The fight against dualist heresies

The reign of Alexis corresponds to a phase of struggle against the various Christological heresies and dualistic, especially Bogomils and Paulicians , experiencing a comeback in these troubled times. The spiritual foundation of these religious movements is simple. For them the evil is not from the disobedience of man vis--vis God, but a principle called out Satan in power equivalent to the property. These heresies are rapidly adopting a sectarian behavior and sometimes refuse to recognize the religious and secular.

The Paulicians

Paulicians are quickly noticed by Alexis when a contingent of 3,000 of them from Philippopolis participate in 1081 in the battle against the Normans Dyrrachium. Apes defeat they refuse to surrender to the summons of the emperor and the latter, once the danger had passed in late 1083 that their exiled leaders. These combine with Patzinaks and participate in the Battle of Blatiova (January 1086) or the Byzantines are crass.Plus later in the year 1114/1115, while the danger seems past Pecheneg, Alexis tries to use persuasion to Paulicians up personally discuss theology with the leaders of the sect.

The fight against the Bogomil

The reaction against heresy Bogomil Alexis is much more violent. This is probably explained by the fact that it has already deeply penetrated the capital. From the tenth century, Bogomil are present in Bulgaria , then to Asia Minor in the middle of next century. In its Dogmatic Panoply, Euthyme Zigabne made a full statement of the Bogomil doctrine. What worries the emperor is the ability to Bogomil go unnoticed and will they enjoy the people and some of the elite circles of the capital . Alexis arrested the leader of the sect in Constantinople, a Basil . According to his daughter Alexis is acting with cunning and caution and approach Basile him by dangling a certain attraction on his part vis--vis the Bogomil doctrine. Basil is invited to exhibit in 1104 , before the emperor, but behind a curtain, hidden, are gathered the Senate and the Holy Synod. At the end of the presentation the curtain is raised and Basil condemned as a heretic. Alexis While the press is stopped to abjure the main leaders of the sect. Basil is finally killed on the racetrack so that his punishment be visible to all. It was burnt alive.

The edict of 1107

The emperor, however, is worried. The trial of John Italos, the multiplication of heretics into the capital and show that the clergy of the church reform seems essential. Alexis accuses the clergy of negligence , especially in teaching the faith and preaching, and he turned to interest primarily to property. Turning away from the preaching of the clergy, and especially the monks, allowed ignorance to grow and prosper heresy. This rhetoric allows Alexis to propose the creation of an order of preachers affiliated with the patriarchal Church.

These preachers called stage directions, are recruited from the patriarchal clergy and collect for the clergy licensees pay. Alexis is also a way of strengthening imperial control over the Church and in particular the clergy of St. Sophia in the capital. The stage directions are a part of education but also moral surveillance . A measure taken by Alexis fact proving that there at the time a relative recruitment crisis in the Church. Indeed Alexis Didascalis allows deacons to stay if they wish, but offers great benefits (higher wages and pensions) for those who embrace the priesthood. Meanwhile Alexis encourages bishops to perform the tasks of teaching themselves, "because it is no disgrace for a bishop, but a great honor, but to enter even in the house of a poor.. "

What becomes clear through this edict is that the position of Alexis, very favorable to the monks during his youth, probably under the influence of his mother Anne Dalassena , has evolved into distrust. Thinking of Anne Comnenus in his Alexiad: "We will not see in fact a hair fashionable among Bogomil; their evil lurks under the cloak and cap.." shows that a large number of heretical monks are starting with Basil the leader of the sect in the capital. The monks said "gyrovagues" does not work and live only for charity. Already at the Council of Chalcedon in 451 the ecclesiastical authorities try to control these wandering monks who often come into conflict with the bishops. This edict of 1107, added to the compilation of all Heresies, written under the name of dogmatic Toolbox Euthyme Zigabne order of the emperor to 1104, demonstrates this commitment to reform and regain control of the Church. The creation of stage directions chosen in the patriarchal clergy is behind what is called the "Patriarchal School".

Control of the Church on education

It seems that the number of stage directions in the capital or the number of 12. The three main dependent Sainte-Sophie and 9 other direct education schools attached to the main churches of Constantinople. The links between these schools and the church already exist and many principals and teachers of these institutions were already appointed by the patriarch. The education provided in these schools is secular in nature and aim to prepare for theological subjects taught by the three stage directions of Hagia Sophia. The edict made by Alexis reinforces patriarchal domination of the clergy who now leads all schools in the capital. The blurring of the laity in the teaching seems gradual but real contrast with the previous period or the laity as Michel Psellus and to a lesser degree, John Italos had a decisive influence. The role of stage directions is larger than that of puisqu'Alexis teacher wants them to interpret the scriptures (in a direction favorable to the orthodoxy of course) . This reform will thus lead to a takeover of the Church by the imperial power and by strengthening the role of patriarchy and the clergy of St. Sophia, which became for the last century of the Empire as a training and recruitment the main church.

The monastic reform

The interest of Alexis for religious issues is partly due to the importance and role of monks in his entourage. Anne Dalassena had ensured the education of his son by monks. And Alexis is always accompanied by a monk during each campaign. While the emperor, as we have seen, appears toward the end of his reign beware of heretical deviations from some monks, especially the homeless, and entrusts the implementation of its reform religious clergy of St. Sophia, but it Nevertheless, the issues related to monasticism in his mind are of great importance. The relationship between the emperor and monks are based on the intercession of the latter, through their prayers, to give victory to Alexis on the enemies of the Empire and the other on the duty of the Emperor to save monasteries. De plus le rgne d'Alexis se caractrise par d'importants transferts de richesses vers l'entourage familial des Comnnes. Une part non ngligeable est utilise la fondation de monastres. C'est ainsi le cas du monastre du , fond par Anne Dalassne o elle est ensevelie. Grgoire Pakourianos fonde le monastre de la (prs de Philippoupolis) et Manuel Boutoumits celui de la Thotokos de Kykko (sur l'le de Chypre ). En avril 1088 Alexis promulgue un chrysobulle accordant l'le dsertique de Patmos , celle o est mort Saint Jean , au moine Christodule afin d'y fonder le monastre de Saint-Jean-le-Thologien.

Mais une rforme semble ncessaire en particulier de la . En effet si l'on excepte les nouvelles fondations la quasi-totalit des monastres appartient aux mains de riches administrateurs, souvent lacs, que l'on nomme les charisticaires. La consiste en l'attribution d'un monastre, souvent en mauvais tat voir en ruine, afin de le restaurer mais sans en donner la proprit. Rapidement les charisticaires en profitent pour aliner de faon illgales de nombreuses proprits ecclsiatiques. Ils n'hsitent pas parfois choisir eux-mmes les moines et persuader les novices de cder tout ou partie de leurs biens. Certains n'hsitent pas inscrire des lacs, membres de leur famille, sur les listes du personnel du monastre afin de bnficier de prbendes ecclsistiques ( ). Alexis lui mme au dbut de son rgne, alors que son pouvoir est chancelant, utilise ce systme pour rcompenser ses fidles . Certains religieux considrent aussi que la nomination d'administrateurs lacs dans au sein d'une communaut de moines est une pervession de la vie monastique.

Ce n'est qu'en 1094 , aprs le synode des Blachernes, qu'Alexis commence s'attaquer au problme. Le patriarche Nicolas Grammatikos tente un inventaire des monastres appartenant au patriarcat. L'obstruction est telle qu'elle contraint l'empereur intervenir en dcembre 1096 par une novelle . Il y rappele le pouvoir absolu du patriarche de contrler et de corriger tout dysfonctionnement et surtout il lui redonne toute latitude dans les nominations des (lacs rsidants l'intrieur d'un monastre et destin embrasser la vie monastique). Il interdit aussi d'inscrire des lacs sur la liste du personnel et donc ainsi d'avoir accs aux .

Les droits du fondateur d'un monastre, l'une des caractristiques du monachisme byzantin sont en revanche prservs. Ce patronage lac (appel ) est diffrent du sustme des charisticaires en ceci que le fondateur, l' doit prserver sa fondation afin qu'il ne tombe en de mauvaises mains et ne pas exploiter son profit personnel les revenus du monastre. Ainsi le monastre de Notre-Dame-Pleine-de-Grace a pour premire Eudocie Comnne, une fille d'Alexie, qui y rside comme nonne aprs son veuvage. Aprs sa mort en 1118 lui succde sa propre mre Irne Doukas , puis sa fille Anne, la sur de cette dernire Marie, la fille de celle-ci Irne et ainsi de suite dans la branche fminine de la famille. Alexis lui-mme est le patron dans sa capitale du monastre du Christ Philanthrpos, de celui de Saint-Mkios et d'une autre fondation en Thrace.

Ce type de patronage n'est pas un phnomne marginal et se poursuit bien aprs le rgne d'Alexis. Il existe un double intrt ce systme. Pour le monastre qui en thorie est spar du monde extrieur mais dpend de la socit alentour pour ses ressources. Un patronage, surtout imprial, est l'assurance de ne manquer d'aucun soutien. Pour le patron c'est l'assurance d'un couteux investissement mais dont l'objectif est d'assurer le souvenir (et sa prennit) de sa personne et de sa famille dans le temps. Alexis attend donc de ses dotations que les moines intercdent, par leur prire, pour sa sauvegarde personnelle mais aussi pour celle de l'empire. Il ya cependant une relle volont de faire de la rforme monastique dcrite prcdemment l'un des points d'appui de la rnovation religieuse qu'il appele de ses vux.

La

Le rgne d'Alexis correspond un renforcement de l'autocratie impriale. L'exemple le plus frappant vient des rformes religieuses dcides, nous venons de le voir, par l'empereur et non le patriarche. Mais la multiplicit des comptences impriales renforce ce phnomne d'autant qu'Alexis, dont le modle est Basile II est un des basileus parmi les plus actifs. Il organise un systme de gouvernement centralis qui repose essentiellement sur lui et entre les mains de ses fidles. Surtout il place les membres de sa famille de nombreux postes mettant ainsi en place un systme de gouvernement qui repose entirement entre les mains de ses parents.

Les principes de la

Alexis une tendance trs nette confondre l'Empire avec la maison des Comnnes . S'il ne prend soin de couronner qu'un seul de ses fils, contrairement certains usages des dynasties prcdente, il donne ses autres enfants, ses gendres, ses frres et neveux les plus hautes dignits. L'exemple de Nicphore Bryenne , son gendre, vritable bras droit d'Alexis ses dernires annes en est l'illustration. A la mort de son frre Isaac, Alexis prend en charge tous ses enfants et les lvent sans faire de distinction avec les siens .

Family

De son mariage avec Irne Doukas Alexis 9 enfants:

• Anne Comnne qui pouse Nicphore Bryenne.
• Marie Comnne marie Grgoire Gabras puis Nicphore Katakalon.
• Jean II Comnne son successeur.
• Andronikos Comnne, sebastokratr
• Isaac Comnne, sebastokratr.
• Eudocie Comnne marie Michel Iasits.
• Theodora Comnne qui pouse Constantin Kourtiks puis Constantin Ange. La dynastie des Ange descend de Thodora.
• Manuel Comnne.
• Zo Comnne

Surtout Alexis va associer troitement sa famille, enfants, neveux, nices dans un rseau complexes d'alliances matrimoniales qui lient les Comnnes toutes les grandes familles de l'aristocratie byzantine .

References

Notes

References