The Battle of Malazgirt, was fought between the Byzantine Empire and Seljuk Turkish forces led by Alp Arslan on August 26, 1071 near Manzikert. It resulted in the defeat of the Byzantine Empire and the capture of Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes.
When the Emperor Romanos IV was conducted into the presence of Alp Arslan, this famous conversation is reported to have taken place:
Alp Arslan: "What would you do if I were brought before you as a prisoner?"
Romanus: "Perhaps I'd kill you, or exhibit you in the streets of Constantinople."
Alp Arslan: "My punishment is far heavier. I forgive you, and set you free.".
