Exploring the Siege of Ravenna in the Byzantine Empire

Belisarius, a trusted general of Justinian, leads a campaign in Italy, capturing Ravenna. Despite being offered the Western Roman crown by the Ostrogoths, he remains loyal to Justinian. However, his actions lead to suspicion and turmoil in the East, as Justinian faces new threats from the Persians. The conquest of Italy is achieved through broken oaths, leaving Justinian questioning Belisarius' loyalty.

What action did Justinian take after receiving Belisarius' letter?

• He sent reinforcements to Belisarius.

• He promoted Belisarius.

• He recalled Narses.

• He declared war on the Ostrogoths.

What was Justinian's reaction to the news from the East?

• He declared peace with the Persians.

• He sent more troops to Italy.

• He ignored it.

• He ordered Belisarius to return to Constantinople.

Why did Belisarius refuse to sign the peace agreement?

• He did not believe the terms came from Justinian.

• He was not authorized to sign it.

• He wanted to negotiate better terms.

• He wanted to continue the war.

What did the Ostrogoths offer Belisarius?

• A peace treaty.

• The crown of Western Rome.

• Control over Ravenna.

• A large sum of money.

What were Belisarius' true intentions after entering Ravenna?

• To claim Italy for himself.

• To claim Italy for Justinian.

• To retreat back to Constantinople.

• To negotiate a new peace treaty.

How did the Ostrogoths feel after Belisarius revealed his true intentions?

• Supportive

• Relieved

• Indifferent

• Betrayed

What was the ultimate outcome of the conquest of Italy?

• It submitted to an honorable peace.

• It was captured by force of arms.

• It fell to broken oaths and bad faith.

• It was abandoned by the Romans.

What was Justinian's main concern after the conquest of Italy?

• The condition of Ravenna.

• The defense of Byzantium.

• The state of the Ostrogothic treasury.

• The loyalty of his generals.

Who did Justinian feel he could trust after Belisarius' actions?

• Theodora

• Belisarius

• Narses

• Vitiges

What was the impact of Belisarius accepting the Western crown?

• It had no significant impact.

• It led to immediate peace.

• It caused Justinian to doubt him.

• It strengthened Justinian's trust in him.