The Paterfamilias Was

The paterfamilias was

A) the oldest living male in a family, who exercised absolute authority over the household.
B) the oldest living male in a family, who was pitied and mocked for his feebleness.
C) a figure accorded considerable respect, but little actual power.
D) was the father of the most children in an extended family, and had absolute authority over the household.
E) not really an important part of Roman family life.