Roman society was structured in a hierarchical manner, with distinct social classes. At the top were the patricians, wealthy landowners who held political power. Below them were the plebeians, the common people, including farmers, artisans, and laborers. Slaves, who had no rights, formed the lowest class. Family was central to Roman life, with the paterfamilias, or male head of the household, holding authority over family members. Education was valued, especially for boys, who learned reading, writing, and rhetoric. Religion also played a significant role, with numerous gods and rituals that influenced daily life and governance.