Discuss social hierarchies based on different criteria occupation, language, wealth, education. compare medieval France with Mesopotamia and the roamn Empire

In the Roman World:
- Women in the Roman world had varying degrees of independence depending on their social status and economic standing.
- Roman women had more freedom and rights compared to women in other ancient societies, such as Greece and India.
- Upper-class Roman women had more independence and were involved in political and social activities.
- They could own property, run businesses, and engage in legal contracts.
- However, they still faced certain restrictions and were expected to fulfill traditional gender roles as wives and mothers.
- Lower-class women had fewer opportunities and were primarily engaged in household tasks and child-rearing.
- Although Roman women had legal rights, their status was always subordinate to men, and their primary role was to support and serve their families.

In India:
- In ancient India, the situation of women was more patriarchal and restrictive compared to the Roman world.
- Women had limited independence and were expected to be submissive to their fathers, husbands, and sons.
- Their main role was to maintain the household and bear children.
- Women had little access to education, and their participation in public life was minimal.
- They were not allowed to own property, and their economic activities were largely determined by their male family members.
- The system of purdah (seclusion) further restricted women's interactions with the outside world.
- Women's rights and freedoms were heavily influenced by social norms, religious beliefs, and the caste system.
- However, it is important to note that the situation of women in India varied across different regions and time periods, as the country has a diverse and complex history.

Comparison:
- In terms of independence, Roman women had more opportunities and rights compared to women in ancient India.
- Roman women had legal rights, could own property, and engage in economic activities.
- They had more involvement in public life and could participate in political and social activities.
- On the other hand, Indian women had limited independence, were restricted to household duties, and had little access to education and economic opportunities.
- The Roman family structure allowed for more individual agency and independence for women, while the Indian family structure was more patriarchal and hierarchical, placing women in subordinate roles.