The articles "Each in His Place" by Robin Varnum and "Who Were the Maya?" by Diana Childress share a common central idea of the complexity of Maya society. Varnum's article highlights the rigid social hierarchy that existed within Maya society, with each person having a specific role based on their birth and gender. In contrast, Childress' article focuses on the extensive network of trade and exchange that existed among Maya cities, which fostered a sense of cultural unity despite the hierarchical nature of society. Together, these articles provide a nuanced understanding of Maya society and the various factors that shaped it.