"This book draws on evidence ranging from pictorial mosaics and inscriptions on the walls of churches to women's poetry and histories, examining for the first time the lives, occupations, beliefs, and social roles of Byzantine women." "In each chapter Carolyn L. Connor introduces us to a single woman - from the elite to the ordinary - and uses her as a springboard to discuss Byzantine society." "This book opens a window on Byzantine culture and women's history that has never before been opened."--BOOK JACKET.