“The Early Medieval Balkans: A Critical Survey from the Sixth to the Late Twelfth Century” by John V. A. Fine
Most of what has been written on the medieval Balkans—the area that now encompasses Yugoslavia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Albania— has been little more than a footnote to Byzantine history or has been limited to narrow national histories.
The Early Medieval Balkans is the first comprehensive examination of the events of early medieval Balkan history—events that were as important as they are fascinating. The period that John Fine examines was an era of significant demographic, political, and religious change in the region.
This thorough and detailed study cuts through many of the myths and assumptions that have pervaded previous histories of the Balkans. It is an important source for those who wish to expand their knowledge of this turbulent period and who wish to broaden their understanding of the region.