The three levels of Sumerian society can be described as follows:
1. Upper class: This was the highest level of Sumerian society and comprised the ruling elites, including kings, nobles, and high-ranking priests. These individuals held the most power and wealth in society and had access to the best resources and privileges. They often lived in large palaces or grand estates and owned vast amounts of land. The upper class also had control over the military and religious institutions.
2. Middle class: The middle class in Sumerian society consisted of skilled craftsmen, merchants, and scribes. These individuals had more economic and social opportunities than the lower class but were not as privileged or powerful as the upper class. Skilled craftsmen, such as blacksmiths, jewelers, and weavers, played a crucial role in producing goods for trade and commerce. Merchants engaged in domestic and international trade, expanding the reach of Sumerian commerce. Scribes held significant positions in society as record-keepers, administrators, and advisors to the elite.
3. Lower class: The lower class encompassed the majority of Sumerian society and consisted of farmers, laborers, and slaves. Farmers were the backbone of the economy, cultivating the land to produce food and resources. While some farmers owned their land, many were tenant farmers who worked for the upper class. Laborers were engaged in various manual tasks, including construction, maintenance, and other forms of physical labor. Slavery was also prevalent in Sumer, where slaves were owned by the upper class and were used for various types of work. They had no rights or social mobility and were considered the lowest rung of society.