Constantine IX Monomachos was a member of one of the great families of Constantinople but was regarded as a rival by Michael IV, who exiled him. After Michael’s death his widow Zoe recalled Constantine and married him. Constantine enjoyed a fortunate reign, surviving two serious revolts, and an attack on Constantinople by the Russians. He refounded the university of Constantinople and enhanced its cultural life, but his neglect of the army, lack of interest in government, and squandering of the great reserves left by Basil II resulted in a disastrous legacy. With hindsight his reign marked a turning point in the fortunes of the empire.

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