Qianying Guo, M.A.

Geboren 1999 in Danyang, China. 2017-2021 Bachelorstudium der Weltgeschichte an der Nankai-Universität, Tianjin. 2021-2024 Masterstudium der Weltgeschichte mit Schwerpunkt Antike und Mittelalter an der Nankai-Universität. Seit WS 2024/25 Promotionsstudium an der Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg mit dem Thema „Theophanu und ihr Einfluss als Byzantinerin am ottonischen Hof“.

E-mail: qianyingguo99@gmail.com

Promotionsprojekt:

Theophanu and her Influence as a Byzantine on the Ottonian Court

(Arbeitstitel, betreut durch PD Dr. Sarti)

This project examines the political influence of Empress Theophanu within the Ottonian court, focusing on her role as a Byzantine princess facing a male-dominated society. The study investigates how Theophanu used her Byzantine heritage to shape Ottonian political culture during the reigns of her husband Otto II and her son Otto III by balancing Roman legacy and Western innovations. The project employs an interdisciplinary approach, combining text analysis, the history of political concepts, and material studies. Sources include Ottonian diplomata, chronicles, letters, like the work of Thietmar of Merseburg, and Byzantine accounts such as the work by Constantine VII. Additionally, archaeological material and iconography, including coins and ivory plaques, are analysed to assess Byzantine cultural influences. Key questions include the extent to which Theophanu’s eastern origins impacted her political actions, the Ottonian conception of Romanness, and her influence on Otto III’s rulership. The project aims to contribute to discussions on female rulership and the integration of Byzantine elements into Ottonian governance. By comparing Theophanu’s influence to other historical figures, the study seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of the role of foreign princesses in medieval power structures.