Byzantine scholars were educated individuals in the Byzantine Empire, which lasted from the 4th to the 15th century. They played a crucial role in preserving and copying ancient texts, particularly works from Greece and Rome. Their efforts helped maintain knowledge during times of political instability and cultural change. These scholars were often associated with monasteries and universities, where they studied subjects like philosophy, theology, and law. They contributed to the development of humanism and the revival of classical learning, influencing the Renaissance in Western Europe. Their work ensured that many classical texts survived for future generations.