Social Class And Social Structure In The Elizabethan Era

Social classes play a major role in society and shape the roles of the people. Since the Elizabethan period began, the social classes were well structured with many influences, such as prestige or wealth. Many citizens found ways to elevate their status and become more successful citizens in the public. The social class structure in the Elizabethan Era was thought to be strict and very well organized, yet still had many opportunities and flaws which lead to changes in citizens’ lives. Wealth served a major role between the classes and placement of citizens within them. The queen or the monarch was the richest and flaunted her wealth with items and luxuries such as jewelry and gold (â€Å"The Social Structure in Elizabethan England†). The†¦show more content†¦This included laborers trying to find or create better jobs for themselves, apprentices recently entering the â€Å"real world†, or even religious figures who found themselves going up the ranks of the church. Once the apprentice had completed his term, he became a freeman. He was free to pursue any career he wanted (â€Å"The Social Structure in Elizabethan England†). Others gained reputation in other ways such as becoming rich. Merchants and bankers were the most socially mobile group in the renaissance. The often started from humble beginnings- as peddlers or craftsmen, for example- and exploited new commercial opportunities to become very wealthy. Once they were rich, they tried to behave like the nobility. Many became patrons and leaders of society (â€Å"Social Order† pp.58). This was very common for these lower class individuals to change jobs in society to obtain higher rankings in society. The social classes had many varying roles which were important to the different classes and their functions in society. Queen Elizabeth was at the top of the social pyramid (â€Å"The Social Structure in Elizabethan England†). Being the head of the country, the Queen was the most respected person in England. She had full control and governed everyone. Following the Queen, came the higher middle classes such as the nobility. The nobility were the fighters and knights, which many had died in the War of the Roses. The Queen saw this class as a threat andShow MoreRelatedQueen Elizabeth Of The Elizabethan Era1369 Words   |  6 Pagesthe social classes of the time (Alchin). Knowing these laws was very important, because punishments for breaking the laws were harsh. Queen Elizabeth I saw the significance in the clothes people wear and how appearance alters the way people see others. This is why the Elizabethan people would sacrifice anything, even their health, to be beautiful. 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