Lineage, namely aristocratic descent, and wealth were the two essential characteristics that differentiated the upper class from the rest of Byzantine society. These elements are mentioned in many hagiologic texts of this period. Nevertheless, it seems that in this period of change there was change also in social activity, for wealth and descent were not always the sole means of winning respect. Titles and offices were undoubtedly another means of ascending the social ladder. Sources of the 9th century mention a large number of public officials. Although it is self-evident that a great part of these were of rich and noble origin, it was not only the well-off and the noble who ascended the ladder of the public hierarchy.

The administrative system of the themes played an important role in the renewal of the upper class. The strategoi (generals) of the themes wielded political and military power over extensive areas and were representatives of the Emperor. Gradually, they not only ascended the imperial social pyramid but also acquired so much political strength that many of them could trigger important uprisings in the areas under their command and could even ascend the imperial throne themselves, as was the case, for example, with Leontios, Bardanes-Philippikos, Leo III, Artabasdos and Michael II.