What group dominated tenth-century Byzantine society?

In tenth-century Byzantine society, the elite class of landowners, often referred to as the "aristocracy," dominated social and political life. This group comprised wealthy families who held significant land and power, influencing governance and the military. Additionally, the Byzantine bureaucracy was staffed by educated individuals, often from these aristocratic backgrounds, further solidifying their dominant position in society. The church also played a crucial role, but the aristocracy remained the primary power brokers during this period.