Ancient Greek society was characterized by a hierarchical structure comprising several distinct social classes:
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Citizens: At the top were adult male citizens, who enjoyed full political rights, including participation in the assembly and holding office. This class was typically landowners and included wealthy aristocrats as well as poorer farmers.
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Metics: Considered free inhabitants but not citizens, metics were often foreigners or immigrants living in city-states like Athens. They could engage in business and trade but lacked political rights and could not own land.
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Women: Women’s social status varied but generally occupied a subordinate position, with limited rights and freedoms. In most city-states, they were expected to manage the household and were often excluded from public life.
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Slaves: Slavery was common in ancient Greece, with slaves being acquired through war, trade, or birth. They had no rights and were considered property, performing various labor-intensive jobs, household tasks, or skilled work.
These classes reflected a complex interplay of rights and responsibilities, contributing to the overall structure of ancient Greek civilizations.