[1] Its name derives from its role as the continuation, covering the years 813–961, of the Chronicle of Theophanes the Confessor, which reaches from 285 to 813.
The manuscript consists of four distinct works, in style and form very unlike the annalistic approach of Theophanes.
[2] The first work, of four books consists of a series of biographies of the emperors reigning from 813 to 867 (from Leo the Armenian to Michael III).
As they were commissioned by Emperor Constantine VII (r. 913–959), they reflect the point of view of the reigning Macedonian dynasty.
The work is essentially a panegyric, praising Basil and his reign while vilifying his predecessor, Michael III.