Animals
Animals
Social Darwinists viewed the poor as being at the bottom of the social hierarchy due to their perceived lack of fitness and ability to compete successfully in society. They believed that poverty was a result of natural selection and survival of the fittest, and therefore saw little value in helping or supporting the poor.
At the bottom of the traditional caste system in India are the Dalits, formerly referred to as "Untouchables." They have historically faced severe discrimination and social exclusion, being relegated to menial and marginalized occupations. The caste system is a socio-religious hierarchy, and despite legal abolishment, its remnants still affect social dynamics in contemporary society.
The Elizabethan concept of order is rooted in the belief in a hierarchical and divinely ordained structure of society, where each individual has a specific role and place. This order is often reflected in literature and drama, emphasizing the importance of maintaining social harmony and the consequences of disrupting the natural order, such as chaos or tragedy. The Great Chain of Being, a philosophical idea prevalent during this time, illustrates this hierarchy, positioning God at the top, followed by angels, humans, animals, and inanimate objects. Ultimately, the restoration of order is a common theme in Elizabethan works, highlighting the value of duty, loyalty, and moral integrity.
Men are above women in the Elizabethan chain.
Queen Elizabeth
Reflects an individual's or population group's position in society and different access to and security of resources such as education, employment and housing, as well as different levels of participation in civic society and control over life.
Queen Elizabeth
women
Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth
Social status during the Renaissance was generally determined by birthright and family lineage, with nobles and royals being at the top of society and commoners at the bottom. Wealth and education could also play a role, allowing some individuals to move up the social hierarchy, but these exceptions were rare. Marriage into higher social classes or receiving titles from the ruling monarch were other ways to climb the social ladder during this period.