Chapter Conclusions

Overview & Synopsis

The age of Lothar was of fundamental importance for the evolution of the ruling classes in Italy, both in the Italic kingdom and in the areas not included within it. The essays collected in this book investigate this evolution through the examination of a series of case studies, which highlight the diversity of the various local situations, particularly between the areas of the kingdom itself and the former Byzantine areas. One of the main points examined is that of the timing and importance of the penetration of immigrants from north of the Alps into Italian society, with the consequent exclusion of the Lombards from the most important positions of power. An important theoretical point examined in the book is also the discussion around the concepts of aristocracy and élites, and what meaning they have if applied to the members of the ruling classes in Italy in Lothar’s time.