It is written by Nikephoros Phokas (1915, titled Theophano), which is also the first to be published (1927, with the legendary phrase “This work was not written at all for the theater”).

The plot includes the events of Phokas's murder by Tzimiskes and Theophano, as in all works that choose this historical theme as a dramatic motif, as it is inherently Shakespearean in its drama.

The first writing of Constantine Palaiologos was completed in 1944. Successive writings follow. It is completed in 1953.

The action is set in Constantinople on the eve of the Fall. The Ottoman Turks are besieging the City.

King Constantine Palaiologos has declared submission to the papal church, as a last effort to save the capital, resulting in turning the clergy and a large part of the people against him. He is in despair. He realizes that there is no longer hope and wishes at least to die with dignity.