Comparison of Germany and Italy in the 12th and 15th centuries.

Similarities and differences between Italy and Germany in the 12th – 15th centuries
To compare Germany and Italy in the 12th – 15th centuries, it is necessary to highlight common features in the development of these states. In addition, you should point out the differences:

in Germany the emperor was the supreme ruler. However, he did not have all the power. The local princes were more powerful. They ruled the cities and received taxes from them. Accordingly, the emperor could not influence the cities and did not have access to income from them. This weakened the central power, which depended on the feudal lords in everything;
in Italy, the processes of state disintegration also took place. Feudal lords ruled over separate areas, not submitting to the central government. In the south, there were several kingdoms that were in no way connected with the northern Italian lands;
the cities received self-government. Communes were created there, which ruled the life of the townspeople and did not even obey the local feudal lords;
the strengthening of cities, the enrichment of their inhabitants led to the creation of strong republics in Genoa, Pisa, Florence. Venice was a separate state, which also grew rich due to trade with the East.

Thus, Germany and Italy in the 12th – 15th centuries experienced a period of state disintegration. In fact, they have ceased to exist. In the place of the former states, free cities, small principalities, independent possessions of barons and several relatively strong kingdoms were formed.

What are the differences
Despite many similarities, Italy and Germany had some differences. Germany did not have such strong commercial republics as in Italy. German free cities traded and grew rich, but they were ruled by local princes.