Before the 18th century, society in Europe was divided into estates and orders. This system of social hierarchy was prevalent throughout much of Europe and played a significant role in shaping the social and political landscape of the time.

The Estates System:
The estate system was a hierarchical structure that divided society into distinct groups based on their social status, privileges, and rights. There were typically three main estates or classes:

1. First Estate - The Clergy:
The First Estate consisted of the clergy, which included bishops, priests, and other religious figures. They held significant power and influence over the people and played a crucial role in the religious and spiritual aspects of society.

2. Second Estate - The Nobility:
The Second Estate was composed of the nobility, which included feudal lords, aristocrats, and members of the royal family. They enjoyed privileges such as land ownership, political power, and exemption from certain taxes. The nobility played a crucial role in governance and held significant influence over political decisions.

3. Third Estate - The Commoners:
The Third Estate encompassed the rest of the population, including commoners, peasants, merchants, artisans, and bourgeoisie. They formed the majority of the population and had limited political power and social privileges. This estate was further divided into various social classes and occupations.

The Orders System:
Within each estate, there were further divisions known as orders. These orders were based on various factors such as occupation, wealth, and social status. For example:

- The nobility had different orders, including the high nobility and the lower nobility, based on their rank and titles.
- The clergy had different orders, such as bishops, priests, and monks, based on their religious roles and responsibilities.
- The commoners were divided into orders based on their occupation and wealth, with categories such as peasants, merchants, and craftsmen.

The Impact on Society:
The estate and order system had a profound impact on European society during this period. It determined an individual's social status, rights, and privileges, as well as their access to resources, education, and opportunities. The higher estates enjoyed more power, wealth, and influence, while the lower classes faced various social and economic hardships.

This system also influenced political structures, as each estate had its own representation and voice in decision-making processes. It often led to conflicts and tensions between the different estates, as they vied for power and resources.

Conclusion:
The division of society into estates and orders was a defining characteristic of European society before the 18th century. This hierarchical system played a crucial role in shaping social dynamics, political structures, and opportunities available to individuals. Understanding this system is essential for comprehending the complexities of European history during this period.