Final answer:
As the economy became more complex, village life shifted from being egalitarian to a more hierarchical structure due to the specialization of labor and accumulation of wealth, which created social classes and increased stratification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The social structure of village life changed as the economy became more complex by becoming more hierarchical. As agriculture evolved and became more sophisticated, some individuals were able to generate surpluses, leading to the accumulation of wealth in various forms. The disparity in wealth created a division in social status, inevitably leading to a hierarchy where those with wealth and resources could leverage their position to gain greater influence and power. Specialization in labor such as trading, crafting, and religious leadership emerged, further stratifying the society. This stratification was reinforced by the governing entities that demanded taxes and obedience in exchange for protection and promise of prosperity.
The combination of these factors showcases a marked departure from the earlier egalitarian societies, where size and lack of wealth ensured a more equal standing among individuals. With the advent of improved agricultural techniques and the ability to generate surpluses, societies became more class-based, with distinct differences in roles, power, and wealth creating a complex social hierarchy.