In ancient egypt, those under pharaoh who directed most government affairs were the

a.
merchants and craftsmen.
b.
regional governors.
c.
nobles and priests.
d.
wealthiest farmers.

C. nobles and priests.

Explanation:

Ancient Egypt consisted of classes of people ranging from sovereign Pharaoh to slaves captured in war. Below the pharaoh nobles and priests were responsible for directing government affairs.

Priests in Ancient Egypt were in the social hierarchy below only in Pharaoh. Endued with enormous prestige and power, the priests were responsible for religion and various functions in the administration of the Egyptian Empire. They were considered the wise men of Egypt. The nobles, in turn, were called Viziers and were directly linked to the pharaoh. The nobles had a great political influence and even took on some governmental affairs, under the order of Pharaoh.

it depends on which society you are referring to. many civilization performed rituals so the gods would with their growing season but the most well known is that of the aztecs. they would make sacrifices, usually animals, but sometimes humans as well.