Empress Theodora was one of the most powerful women in Byzantium. Translated from Greek, her name means "God's gift." Being the wife of Justinian I, she was a woman of strong will and clear mind who shared the imperial affairs with her husband. She governed the politics of Byzantium, and her word carried great weight.
She governed the politics of Byzantium, and her word carried great weight. Often, her husband was saved by Theodora's resourcefulness, and thanks to her strength of spirit, a major rebellion was suppressed. The Empress fought for women's rights at the legislative level, protected the poor, and adhered to religion.