Although the novel never explicitly mentions the parallel, the social structure of Midgard resembles the Roman Empire. The use of Latin terms and the prevalence of slavery both evoke a repressive civilization intent on maintaining the status quo. Hierarchies serve to stratify the population and keep people in their assigned roles for life. The top stratum is occupied by the Asteri, semi-divine beings who rule from a distance but have the power to annihilate anyone who steps out of line. Because they are essentially eternal, their very existence seems to reify the permanence of their regime, which has already lasted for 15,000 years.

The Vanir cannot claim the same immortality at the Asteri, but they try to enforce a lesser right to rule through their magical power and their bloodlines. The hierarchy of magic is demonstrated by the ritual of the Drop. Those who survive the ordeal are rated for their magical powers. Individuals who show the greatest abilities receive the greatest respect from their peers. The Autumn King is envious that his son inherited the Starborn gift when he did not. He is even more concerned when Bryce’s magic registers higher than his own after her Drop.