The Alexiad of Anna Comnena Chapter Summary & Analysis - Book X Summary

Book X Summary and Analysis

A new heretic, Nilus, followed Italus and sucked many into his heterodoxy. He was very ignorant of church tradition. Nilus was quickly anathematized. Alexius was able to bring his authority to bear on crushing the heresy. He was imprisoned and secretary cavorted with the Comans. They stole him away to their own country. The details of the escape are explained. Conflict with the Comans arises as a result and war comes. Skirmishes develop and the Comans persist to such a degree that Alexius believes he must personally lead troops against them. Anna tracks her father's movements.

At this time, the Turks start to attack Bithynia and plundered the countryside. Alexius hatched a plot against the Turkish incursions, however. It involved digging a canal. Anna explains the details. The canal was successful in blocking the incursions but before Alexius could relax Frankish armies amass. He was fearful because he knew...
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