Theodore Metochita

Theodore Metochites (1270–1332) was a prominent Byzantine Greek statesman, author, gentleman philosopher, and patron of the arts. He held the significant position of personal adviser (*mesazōn*) to Emperor Andronikos II Palaiologos from approximately 1305 to 1328. Born in Constantinople, Metochites was the son of an archdeacon. Following his father's condemnation and exile, Metochites spent his youth in the monastic communities of Bithynia, immersing himself in both secular and religious studies. His intellectual prowess impressed Andronikos II, who appointed him Logothete of the Herds in 1290/91 and later a Senator. Metochites undertook diplomatic missions, including embassies to Cilicia and Serbia, while continuing his scholarly pursuits. He also became a teacher, notably instructing Nicephorus Gregoras in astronomy. His career reached its zenith in 1321 when he became Grand Logothete. Metochites was also a patron of the arts, significantly contributing to the restoration and decoration of the Chora monastery. However, his fortunes were tied to the emperor's; following the overthrow of Andronikos II in 1328, Metochites was deprived of his possessions and exiled. He was permitted to return to Constantinople in 1330 and retreated to the Chora monastery, where he died in 1332, adopting the monastic name Theoleptos.