[5] The appointment had been secured through the influence of Leo Paraspondylos, Theodora's most trusted adviser, who remained chief minister.

[2] Although Michael managed to survive a conspiracy organized by Theodosios, a nephew of the former emperor Constantine IX Monomachos,[3] he was faced with the disaffection of the military aristocracy.

[6] Michael compounded his error by rebuffing Bryennios after he had already ordered the restored general to lead a division of 3,000 men to reinforce the army in Cappadocia.

[6] From here Bryennios began plotting to overthrow Michael VI, and it was his capture that precipitated the military nobility to rally around the general Isaac Komnenos, who was proclaimed emperor in Paphlagonia on 8 June 1057.

[2] Soon after, the government's army was routed at the Battle of Petroe (20 August 1057) near Nicaea,[7] and Isaac Komnenos advanced on Constantinople.