Priscus

Priscus or Priskos (died 613) was a leading East Roman (Byzantine) general during the reigns of the Byzantine emperors Maurice (reigned 582–602), Phocas (r. 602–610) and Heraclius (r. 610–641).

Although the contemporary sources are markedly biased in his favor, Priscus comes across as an effective and capable military leader.

Under Maurice, he distinguishes himself in the campaigns against the Avars and their Slavic allies in the Balkans.

Absent from the capital at the time of Maurice's overthrow and murder by Phocas, he is one of the few of Maurice's senior aides who are able to survive unharmed into the new regime, remaining in high office and even marrying the new emperor's daughter.

Priscus, however, also negotiates with and assists Heraclius in the overthrow of Phocas, and is entrusted with command against the Persians in 611–612.

After the failure of this campaign, he is dismissed and tonsured.

He dies shortly after.

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