Regent Theodora (wife of Theophilos)
gold solidus of theodora s regency, on obverse , son michael, nominal emperor, , daughter thekla on reverse.
following death of husband, theodora served regent son michael. overrode theophilus ecclesiastical policy , summoned council under patriarch methodius, in veneration, not worship, of icons (images of jesus christ , saints) restored , iconoclastic clergy deposed.
she carried on government firm , judicious hand; replenished treasury , deterred bulgarians attempt @ invasion. however, during regency vigorous persecution of paulician heresy commenced.
in order perpetuate power purposely neglected son s education, , therefore must held responsible voluptuous character developed under influence of uncle bardas, theodora s brother , likewise of mamikonian heritage.
theodora endeavoured in vain combat bardas s authority; in 855 displaced regency @ prompting, , being subsequently convicted of intrigues against him relegated monastery of gastria in 857. both bardas , michael assassinated basil i, usurp throne , establish macedonian dynasty. theodora die sometime after son s murder in 867, having witnessed end of dynasty had worked hard preserve. canonized in recompense zeal on behalf of restoration of icons objects of veneration. feast day february 11.
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