Which of the following was a major factor in the decline of the Byzantine empire?
A.
conversion of the Slavs
B.
iconoclasm
C.
arrival of invaders
D.
recapture of Rome
C. Arrival of invaders was a major factor in the decline of the Byzantine Empire.
The major factor in the decline of the Byzantine Empire can be identified by reviewing the given options and understanding their historical significance.
A. Conversion of the Slavs: While the conversion of the Slavs to Christianity expanded Byzantine influence and brought them into the Byzantine cultural sphere, it was not a major factor in the decline of the empire.
B. Iconoclasm: Iconoclasm, which was the rejection and destruction of religious icons, did create a division within the Byzantine society and caused tensions, but it alone cannot be considered a major factor in the decline of the empire.
C. Arrival of invaders: This option seems promising as the Byzantine Empire faced numerous invasions throughout its history. Invaders like the Arabs, Seljuk Turks, and the Fourth Crusade, among others, weakened the empire and contributed to its decline. Therefore, the arrival of invaders is a significant factor in the decline of the Byzantine Empire.
D. Recapture of Rome: Although the Byzantines had a historical connection with Rome and had conflicts with the Western Roman Empire, the recapture of Rome does not directly correlate with the decline of the Byzantine Empire.
In conclusion, the major factor in the decline of the Byzantine Empire was the arrival of invaders, making option C the correct answer.