The effects of Manzikert and Myriokephalon on the fall of the Byzantine Empire

[Prince Cobra]

Stephen Asen it is never said that Basil II hated women. Like Nikephoros Phokas it seems he was rather bookish and had little time for such distractions, instead preferring government and war, but to blame him as the chief perpertrator of the misfortunes of the 11th century, for not having an heir, is, I feel, rather harsh. Angold also blamed Basil and there are not many who subscribe to his theory.

1) He could have married at least. Yet, with a mother like Theophano...

2) He could have forced his neices to marry on time. Both Theodora and Zoe (the heiresses to the throne) were left unmarried. A capable husband might have secured the future of the dynasty. A strong dynasty with a capable leader was essential for the surviving of the Empire (with few exceptions). Instead sterile and old rulers, both men and women, followed one after another.

Basil II was indeed very capable as general and a politician but I think he underestimated the importance of strong bloodline.
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Isaac Comnenus was indeed a good choice. As far as I can remember, he had problems with the dynatoi (strong centralism policy) and the capital administration. Yet, his bad health contributed a lot to his failure.