Everyday and Social Life of the Byzantines

The research area Every day and Social Life of the Byzantines (KKBB) focuses on the investigation of the social and cultural dimensions of daily life in Byzantium. It explores social attitudes, habits, choices, and responses—at both individual and collective levels, in public and private spheres—as reflected in historical sources ranging from written texts and artistic works to material objects. The research area has also integrated a project that examines emotions through the combined lenses of historical analysis and psychology. A distinct field of research focuses on the practical aspects of rural life, alongside the anthropological and cultural dimensions of Byzantine nutrition and diet. A noteworthy innovation of this research direction is the establishment of Byzantine gastronomy as a specialized scientific field within the broader study of Byzantine culture. Gastronomic culture is examined as a multidimensional phenomenon that encompasses the entire food process—from the production, preservation, and processing of raw materials to the preparation of dishes—addressing not only basic sustenance, but also issues related to life standards and well-being. Recent developments within the research area include the study of gender roles, particularly in relation to culinary engagement, with an emphasis on the stereotypes and social norms that inform and reflect everyday cooking practices.