Dmitry Afinogenov The story of the patriarch Constantine II of Constantinople in Theophanes and George the Monk: transformations of a narrative

The dreadful fate of the Patriarch Constantine II (754-65) has been a subject of discussion for some time.1 From Theophanes’ Chronographia it may be gathered that the Emperor Constantine V became enraged against his namesake and appointee, adduced false witnesses who testified that the patriarch threw abuse at the emperor, swearing by the Holy Cross. He then banished the wretch, then recalled him from exile, subjected him to torture and humiliation, and finally had him decapitated.