In the 6th century, the Roman Empire was split and its future hung in the balance.
Emperor Justinian dreamed of restoring it to its former glory. That was until the first great plague devastated Constantinople.
Thousands died, bodies were piled in the streets - even the Emperor fell ill.
How did this effect ambitions to restore the Empire to its former glory? And how did citizens react to this deadly disease?
Joining Anthony and Maddy is Kyle Harper, historian and author of The Fate of Rome: Climate, Disease.
Edited by Tim Arstall. Produced by Stuart Beckwith. Senior Producer is Charlotte Long.
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After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal is a History Hit podcast.