How is Phocas generally depicted in surviving historical sources?
As a wise ruler
As a great reformer
As an incompetent tyrant and usurper
As a pious saint
Answer
Phocas is generally depicted in surviving historical sources as an incompetent tyrant and usurper. This image was formed by Byzantine writers of the 6th and 7th centuries, who were hostile to Phocas and his supporters. Phocas was accused of murdering the emperor Maurice and his family, and of ruling in a cruel and oppressive manner.
The Byzantine Odyssey: Unraveling the Enigma of Emperor Phocas
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