Ο Βελισάριος

by Jean-François Marmontel

"Ο Βελισάριος" by Jean-François Marmontel is a philosophical novel published in 1767. The story follows General Belisarius, a Byzantine hero blinded by Emperor Justinian's orders, as he journeys home guided by a child. Along the way, he encounters former allies and enemies who are outraged by his fate. Rather than expressing bitterness, Belisarius shares his vision of ideal governance and religious tolerance. The novel sparked fierce controversy, particularly its chapter advocating religious tolerance, leading to condemnation by the Sorbonne and the Archbishop of Paris in 1767-1768.