1. Elite/Aristocracy:
* Eupatrids: In Athens, this was the original noble class, often landowners with political influence and a strong claim to power.
* Kings: Some city-states, like Sparta, had a king, often with limited powers compared to other rulers.
* Magistrates: High-ranking officials appointed by the ruling class, often holding positions like generals, treasurers, or religious leaders.
2. Middle Class/Citizen:
* Demos: In Athens, this term referred to the common citizens, usually free men with voting rights and the ability to participate in government.
* Farmers, artisans, merchants: Members of this class were often involved in trade and commerce, contributing to the city's economic activity.
* Soldiers: In some city-states, citizen-soldiers played a significant role in maintaining order and defending the city.
3. Lower Class/Non-citizens:
* Metics: Foreigners who resided in the city but lacked full citizenship, often engaging in trade or crafts.
* Slaves: Individuals without freedom who were often owned by wealthy citizens and performed various tasks, from domestic work to labor in fields and mines.
* Poor: Individuals who lived in poverty and lacked the means to participate fully in the city's social and political life.
Notable Variations:
* Sparta: Had a rigid social hierarchy with a warrior class (Spartiates) holding most power and a significant population of helots (serfs) who supported the Spartan way of life.
* Athens: Developed a more democratic system, where citizens (demos) had a greater say in government, although women and slaves were excluded from full participation.
* Other City-States: Showed varying levels of social mobility and influence, with some promoting more equitable systems and others maintaining strict hierarchies.
In summary: The social classes in ancient city-states were diverse, ranging from the elite ruling class to the lower strata of society. These classes interacted and influenced each other, shaping the political, economic, and social landscape of these ancient city-states.