Niketas Scholares

Niketas Scholares (Greek: Νικήτας Σχολάρης, fl. 1341–1361), was a Byzantine Greek aristocrat and military leader in the Empire of Trebizond.

Life

Nicetas was a leader of the Scholarioi faction in Trebizond. In 1341 Nicetas and his co-leader, Gregory, sent for Michael Megas Komnenos, who resided in the Byzantine capital Constantinople, to assume the reigns of the Empire from his niece, Anna of Trebizond. This was unsuccessful as Michael was imprisoned by the megas doux John the Eunuch. Instead, Michael's son John III became emperor in September 1342. John's incompetent rule allegedly infuriated his chief supporters, and Nicetas is said to have marched with the army to Limnia to free Michael. Nicetas was instrumental in deposing John III.

After becoming Emperor, Michael granted Nicetas the title of megas doux and gave Nicetas and his ministers extensive powers in the Empire by promising to seek their counsel in all official actions. This proved unpopular with the populace of Trebizond, who revolted against the oligarchy of the Scholarioi. In 1345 Nicetas was arrested and imprisoned, however Michael was later been forced to release from him prison. On December 13, 1349 Nicetas conspired to depose Michael and his supporters placed John, the son of Emperor Basil, on the throne. Nicetas appears to fade from historical records after this point.

Sources

• Vougiouklaki, Pinelopi (2003), "Νικήτας Σχολάρης" (in Greek), Encyclopaedia of the Hellenic World, Asia Minor, http://www.ehw.gr/l.aspx?id=5537