Which of the following best compares the power of the Roman and Byzantine emperors? (1 point)
A. The code of Justinian ensured that the Byzantine emperor would have less control than the emperors.
B. The Romans had more power than the Byzantine emperor, except in religious matters.
C. The Byzantine emperor was not recognized by the senate as the roman emperor had been.
D. While both were head of the government, the Byzantine emperor had greater control over the government.
D. While both were head of the government, the Byzantine emperor had greater control over the government.
The correct answer is D. While both were head of the government, the Byzantine emperor had greater control over the government.
To compare the power of the Roman and Byzantine emperors, we need to analyze the options given and choose the best one.
Option A states that the Code of Justinian ensured that the Byzantine emperor would have less control than the emperors. To determine if this is true, we need to understand what the Code of Justinian is. The Code of Justinian was a collection of laws created during the reign of Emperor Justinian in the Byzantine Empire. It aimed to systematize and clarify the existing laws. However, the code itself does not necessarily provide evidence about the power of the Byzantine emperor compared to the Roman emperors. Therefore, we can eliminate option A.
Option B suggests that the Romans had more power than the Byzantine emperor, except in religious matters. This statement implies that the Roman emperors had overall more power, except regarding religious affairs. While it is true that the Roman Empire exerted significant influence and control over its territories, we need to focus on the comparison between the Roman and Byzantine emperors, not the overall power of the Roman Empire. Thus, we can eliminate option B.
Option C states that the Byzantine emperor was not recognized by the Senate as the Roman emperor had been. This statement suggests that the Byzantine emperor did not receive the same recognition or legitimacy from the Senate as the Roman emperors did. While this may have some influence on power dynamics, it does not provide a comprehensive comparison between the powers of the two emperors. Therefore, we can eliminate option C.
Option D asserts that, although both emperors were the heads of the government, the Byzantine emperor had greater control over it. This statement implies that the Byzantine emperor had more authority and influence over the government compared to the Roman emperors. This option focuses specifically on the power of the emperors and their control over the government, making it the most appropriate option to choose.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D: While both were heads of the government, the Byzantine emperor had greater control over the government.