(Comments from the Peanut Gallery)
There are multiple "gradients" classes are placed on, not just one.

Examples:
Ability to do damage,
Ability to absorb dmg,
Number/versatility of weapons usable,
Number/versatility of spells usable,
Specialized <--> General use, and, of course,
Ease in Roleplaying ;-)

It is impossible, at least for me, to combine all these factors into a
single scale. Some classes, such as bards, can use good spells, melee,
absorb damage, and RP well. (lv50s: At some levels, I *know*) Others, such
as enchanters, are more specialized. //
(Tinlin, RO) //
// (EQ Drum ASCII Art :)
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