A review by english_lady03
The Secret History by Procopius

3.0

An unofficial history recounting what the author really thought about the 5th century Byzantine establishment. Biting, vitriolic and pulling no punches 'The Secret History' has been described as the Early Medieval version of salacious tabloid gossip. Certainly, there does seem to be an element of exaggeration because some of the events and actions the author described are almost so extreme and deplorable it is hard to believe them true.
However, the fact that he specifically requested that it not be published until after his and the Emperor's death does suggest that may indeed have been 'something rotten' in the heart of the Byzantine state.

Also, some useful details about social customs and institutions- like a late Roman postal service!