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Anthony Kaldellis

A classicist and Byzantine historian at the University of Chicago, known for his work on the Eastern Roman Empire.

Circuit updated July 2, 2026

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Anthony Kaldellis says Roman families voluntarily castrated their sons to place them at the emperor's court
Lex Fridman Podcast·Culture

Anthony Kaldellis says Roman families voluntarily castrated their sons to place them at the emperor's court

The Byzantine historian explains how castration was sometimes a family's smartest power move, not just a cruelty imposed on slaves.

Jul 2, 2026