Cuidar do corpo e do espírito, dos homens e da terra : a condessa Matilda da Toscana e a política como esfera doméstica (1046-1115)

Abstract

Considering the reality of decentralization of power in Northern Italy in the XI and XII centuries, where the presence of active social forces such as the Papacy and the German Empire was undeniable, we find Matilda of Canossa, Countess of Tuscany and Duchess of Lorraine who held the position of manager of a remarkable land fortune which she had inherited and which we call “domestic sphere”. This project aims to show her acting facing a political exercise of local nature, that is, somewhat different from the social role that is attributed to her by the classical historiography. In order for such analysis elaboration to be possible, we use other definitions, less conventional concepts that help us position Matilda in a central place, as well as identify in her actions, elements which correspond to a comprehensive and autonomous management. She is the householder that administrates movable and immovable property, people and castles, plantations and livestock. Besides the procedures related to material matters of practical order, she was also in charge of moral, and sometimes spiritual, orientation of her dependants. The countess shows her political relevance when we find her involved in episodes such as the council which took place in Mantua in 1064 ‘capital’ of her domains; or even when she divorced her first husband, regaining the control of her inheritance, which allows the argumentation of a sovereignty and self-government conduct.