Houses and Hierarchies

I found it incredibly intriguing that a house could show how one tried to gain power. A house is an indication of social standing within a society, so I'm a little peeved at myself for not drawing that connection.  Coupled in by the idea that Jefferson wrote the Declaration about "all men are equal" and all that jazz, it's odd to see a clear division of social structures within his home.  His family was hidden behind certain doors in certain rooms and the servants were not to be seen.  He was self sufficient, but still required servants for his basic needs and to serve his many relatives.  His home cloistered people off, but he wrote about being inclusive of everyone, or at least giving them those opportunities.