Beginners\' Books

[Theo]

Guys,

I'm fairly new to Byzantine military history. Could you recommend 3-4 books which would give me a decent start?

Theo

[Ioannes_Ahenobarbus]

For a beginner, I personally recommend "Warfare, State, and Society in the Byzantine World 565-1204" by John Haldon. "The Byzantine Wars" by Haldon is a good one, too (I don't have it but I have read it). The osprey titles aren't bad, either.
Once you obtain a fairly good grasp of the topic, opt for "Byzantium and Its Army, 284-1081" by Warren Treadgold. After that, about anything should suit you.
If you want a good general history, Treadgold's "A History of the Byzantine State and Society" is a fantastic work. It is general enough for everyone, but many times detailed enough for a specialist. It also includes a huge bibliography.
If you find yourself getting confused or forgetting some of the details, don't fret, because Byzantine military history can be rather complicated, even when you study it for a living! I hope I have helped you.

[Theo]

Dear John,

Many thanks for the recommendations.

Theo

[Laran]

Also, for late period
Mark C. Bartusis 'The Late Byzantine Army: Arms and Society 1204-1453'

[Ioannes_Ahenobarbus]

I forgot about Bartusis' book! Thank you Laran. It is a great book also

[Theo]

Guys,

Thanks - should keep me busy for a year or two! I may be onto a fascinating subject here.

Theo

[Theo]

Guys,

I think there are one or two other Theo's on the forum - I'm the one from Belfast!

Theo

[JP Vieira]

Thanks for the recommendations.