Final answer:
High-ranking servants or officials are typically refined, well-educated, and adept at navigating complex social and political dynamics while maintaining discretion and loyalty to their superiors and the public they serve.
Step-by-step explanation:
At the higher-ranking levels of service, whether in ancient aristocracies or in modern contexts, the typical servant or official displays a set of distinct qualities. These individuals are usually well-educated and carry a sense of refinement necessary for their station. As suggested by Ashworth's examination of the differences between politicians and civil servants, those in higher service levels must navigate complex relationships, balancing the demands of their superiors against the broader interests of the public they serve. This requires discretion, a deep understanding of protocol and policy, and often a strong sense of duty and loyalty.
In historical contexts, like the aristocratic societies of East Asia and Persia, high-ranking servants adhered to strict codes of conduct and dress, and their lives were intricately connected to the details of their superior's rank and privileges. They needed to be educated to serve adequately, suggesting a blend of intellectual capability and social skill. In contemporary times, this translates to the civil servant who must act in the best interest of the public, walking the fine line between being seen as a bureaucrat or a dedicated public servant.
Overall, high-ranking servants or officials, regardless of the time period, tend to share characteristics such as education, refinement, and a commitment to serve with a nuanced understanding of power dynamics. They are also expected to act with deference and understanding of their role within the larger structure of power and social order.