Narses (c. 478โ573 AD) was a eunuch general and courtier under Emperor Justinian I. Originally the grand chamberlain (praepositus sacri cubiculi), he transitioned to military command late in life, proving to be one of the period's most capable generals.
Dispatched to Italy to break the stalemate in the Gothic War, Narses brought massive reinforcements and a clear strategy. In 552, he decisively defeated the Ostrogothic king Totila at the Battle of Taginae, utilizing a sophisticated deployment of dismounted archers and pikemen.
He followed this with another victory at Mons Lactarius, ending Ostrogothic rule in Italy. He served as the exarch of Italy for many years, rebuilding its war-torn infrastructure before being recalled by Justin II.