The Komnenian dynasty ruled Byzantium from 1081 to 1185, restoring imperial stability after decades of crisis. Under emperors like Alexios I, John II, and Manuel I, the empire regained territory and experienced cultural flourishing despite ongoing pressures from Normans, Turks, and Crusaders.

The Komnenian period saw revival of classical learning and production of sophisticated Greek literature including historiography, poetry, and romance. Anna Komnene's Alexiad exemplifies this literary renaissance, while court poetry and rhetorical displays demonstrated the continuity of Hellenistic literary traditions.