Above the wizard in the social spectrum are the true sorcerers. There are two types — the high sorcerer (a Middle Ages concept, found in Christian lands) and the runic sorcerer (his Dark Ages equivalent, now found only in pagan lands). These may be men of gentle birth who turned to the magic arts, or they may be wizards who have become more academic and sophisticated.
High Sorcerers
The high sorcerer is the closest thing to the D&D wizard. Born of the free classes, and possibly of noble origins, he has time and resources to study magic, not just learn it. High sorcerers have a much better understanding of the workings of the ethereal plane and how magic works. They are experts in magic, and can master almost any aspect. They have learned to conjure spirits, and some, like, Faust, have been corrupted by this power. Others consider themselves good Christians, and practice only White Magic. Their magic use is generally secretive (since they likely must protect their standing in society). The trappings of their art are very “high magic:” study of grimoires and astrological tables, drawing of conjuring diagrams, and the use of precious metals and stones.
Runic Sorcerers
The runic sorcerers are disappearing, and are now found in pagan areas only, being replaced by the up-and-coming high sorcerers in Christendom. They use the power of the runes, as taught by Odin (previously, they also used the Celtic secrets of ogham, but Celtic runic sorcerers are a thing of the past). They are otherwise similar to their Christian counterparts. Runic sorcerers are particularly noted for their shapechanging abilities, and their abilities to enchant weapons and armor, but, like high sorcerers, they are generalists who can master most magical tasks.