Abstract

GUGLIELMI, Nilda. Virtues and sins (Italy, 12 th - 15th centuries). Temas Mediev. [online]. 2005, vol.13, pp.53-77. ISSN 0327-5094.

On ground of earlier research, the author analyzes political virtues and sins which can be recognized in the Italian Communes. Nilda Guglielmi concludes that law was the exogenous factor which conferred coherence to the community, while virtue was an endogenous ethical component which achieved harmony among the citizens. With examples at hand the author illustrates different ways in which these ideals become apparent in actions carried out by certain communal governments.

Keywords : Italian Communes; Communal governments; virtues; sins.