Final answer:
The city that gave fathers extreme authority over their children, including the right to kill or sell them, was Rome. This was under a practice known as 'patria potestas', illustrating the harsh patriarchy and social hierarchy in ancient societies. Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Step-by-step explanation:
The city where fathers previously had authority over their children to a severe extent, including the power to sell or kill them, was b) Rome. This extreme patriarchal authority in ancient Rome was known as the patria potestas. Fathers, also known as pater familias, held immense power over their family, this would also extend to other members such as wives and slaves.
However, there were certain conditions to the exercise of these brutal rights. For example, a father could kill a man who was caught having sex with his daughter, but this has to occur in the act, not merely suspected or circumstantial evidence. These laws positioned fathers as the ultimate authority figures, causing fear and obedience amongst family members.
These legal provisions reflect the rigid social hierarchy and patriarchy that defined Rome during its era of dominance. Such behaviours would be considered highly unacceptable and illegal in today's modern cultures, marking the significant progression society has made in terms of human rights and child protection.
Learn more about Patria Potestas