The cult of the Persian god Mithras was popular with which of the following groups in imperial Rome?

While patrician women were influential in Roman society, the cult of Mithras primarily attracted male followers, particularly those in military and lower-class circles. The exclusivity of Mithraic rituals and the male-dominated nature of the cult made it less appealing or accessible to women, including those of the patrician class.

Slaves in imperial Rome had limited freedom and were often excluded from formal religious practices that required social status or wealth. Although some slaves might have participated in various cults, Mithraism was predominantly a male-dominated religion respected among higher-status groups, particularly soldiers, making it less likely for slaves to be significant adherents.

Orators and philosophers held considerable sway in Roman society, focusing on rhetoric and public discourse rather than the militaristic and esoteric nature of Mithraism. The cult's focus on secret rituals and military virtues did not align with the interests or lifestyle of orators, who often engaged in public debates and civic matters.

Although some emperors may have shown interest in various mystery religions, Mithraism was not a major focus of imperial worship. The cult remained largely associated with the military rather than the political elite, which often pursued different forms of religious expression that aligned more closely with state cults and traditional Roman beliefs.