The famous consort of the Roman Emperor Justinian I. (q. v .), who, captivated by her extraordinary charms of wit and person, raised her from a life of shame to share his throne, a high office she did not discredit; scandal, busy enough with her early years, has no word to say against her subsequent career as empress; the poor and unfortunate of her own sex were her special care; remained to the last the faithful helpmate of her husband (508-548).