The 12th century witnessed a revival of the ancient Greek romance genre in Byzantine literature, with works like Prodromos' Rhodanthe and Dosikles and Niketas Eugenianos' Drosilla and Charikles. These verse romances adapted Hellenistic narrative conventions to medieval Christian contexts, featuring adventurous plots, separated lovers, and eventual reunions.

Byzantine romances preserved and transmitted ancient Greek literary traditions through the Middle Ages, influencing later European romance literature through translations and adaptations. These works demonstrated continuity between classical and medieval Greek literature, maintaining sophisticated rhetorical styles and narrative techniques. The romances' emphasis on chastity and divine providence reflected Christian values while preserving pagan narrative structures, creating hybrid forms that bridged cultural epochs.