
Indeed, many of the patriarchs of Constantinople during Byzantine times were eunuchs. The Roman emperors Claudius, Nero, Vitellius, and Titus employed eunuchs as such, as did most of the subsequent emperors of the Byzantine Empire. Eunuchs were used as court advisers and officials in Persia under the Achaemenids (559–330 bc). At times palace eunuchs became more powerful than the emperor and effectively ruled China. 1122–221 bc) and continued as such under the Han, T’ang, Ming, and Sung dynasties, persisting almost until the end of the imperial regime. Most eunuchs underwent castration as a condition of their employment, though others were castrated as punishment or after they had been sold by poor parents.Įunuchs functioned as political advisers to the emperors of China as early as the Chou period ( c. Some rose to become bodyguards, confidential advisers, and even ministers, generals, and admirals. Eunuchs were considered the most suitable guards for the many wives or concubines a ruler might have in his palace, and the eunuchs’ confidential position in the harems of princes frequently enabled them to exercise an important influence over their royal masters and even to raise themselves to stations of great trust and power. From remote antiquity, eunuchs were employed in the Middle East and in China in two main functions: as guards and servants in harems or other women’s quarters, and as chamberlains to kings.
#Unik person how to
COVID-19 Portal While this global health crisis continues to evolve, it can be useful to look to past pandemics to better understand how to respond today.Student Portal Britannica is the ultimate student resource for key school subjects like history, government, literature, and more.From tech to household and wellness products.

Britannica Explains In these videos, Britannica explains a variety of topics and answers frequently asked questions.This Time in History In these videos, find out what happened this month (or any month!) in history.#WTFact Videos In #WTFact Britannica shares some of the most bizarre facts we can find.Demystified Videos In Demystified, Britannica has all the answers to your burning questions.

Britannica Classics Check out these retro videos from Encyclopedia Britannica’s archives.
