| Ancient Egypt's social
structure, like it's most recognizable symbol, took the form of a
pyramid. This social pyramid was divided into four class distinctions:
upper, middle, lower, and bottom. Pharaohs were at the top
of the social pyramid.
The upper class was comprised
of royal families known as courtiers, high ranking civil servants, generals,
high priests, noblemen, and landowners.
The middle class was comprised
of scribes, government officials, priests and priestesses, doctors,
engineers, soldiers, merchants, sailors, and craftsmen.
The lower class was
comprised of farmers, dancers, and laborers. This was the largest
class.
The bottom class consisted
of slaves. Most slaves were not Egyptian, but from neighboring areas.
People were able to increase
their rank by marrying the wealthy or obtaining a job
in the higher classes. |
