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Autokrator

Autokrator

Autokrator (sole ruler) is the approximate Greek equivalent of imperator, although it lacks the military element present in the Latin form. Eventually the title became a way to distinguish the senior emperor from his junior colleagues, appearing for instance on seals from the reign of Basil II and Constantine VIII on which Basil appears alone. The title autokrator appears first during the sole reign of Constantine VII (top left BZS.1955.1.4300, top right from a century later, Michael VII BZS.1951.31.5.1674). Autokrator and basileus are the most common titles from then until the reign of Nikephoros III, and occasionally appear together on the same seal. The female form, autokratorissa, is used alongside the title augusta on seals of Anna Palaiologina in the fourteenth century.

Basil II, issued 976–1025, and Anna Palaiologina, issued 1341–47 (BZS.1958.106.637)
Basil II, issued 976–1025, and Anna Palaiologina, issued 1341–47 (BZS.1958.106.637)

 

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