Different cultures put different priorities on families. Some, like the Dwarves, and
Halflings put a great deal of focus on the clan and family structure as the basis for the communities that exist around them. Some others are more tribal and treat the whole population around them as one large family, like the
Dragonkin , or the
Human barbarian tribes. Some have little regard for families and the individual is the most important thing, like in
Fallen or
Goblinkind cultures.
Marriage
Typically, the nobility of
Essillion marry for prestige or to fulfil old family promises. It is not uncommon for Essillion noble families to arrange marriages for honouring treaties or to strengthen their position within the court. The clergy of Pristell take great pride in finding excellent matches, tutoring brides and grooms on etiquette, and planning exquisite functions to celebrate unions of marriage. Most nobles accept their fate, but great stories have been told of those who shirk their responsibilities for love.
The common folk of Essillion and across Starhelm can usually marry whom they please, with some exceptions. The upwardly mobile middle-class families tend to mirror the nobles and try for arranged marriages to help catapult them to lesser nobility or higher if possible. Though rare, they sometimes manage to find great success in political unions.
Many barbarian tribes have specific marriage rights, but they do not follow the typical Human customs of the cities. Some marry for love, some to strengthen their tribe, some because the gods foretold it. Unions most often last long with an emphasis on producing children to defend the tribe.
Elven marriages are typically made out of love but the parents nurture and help blossom the matches they prefer to see.
Dwarves also marry out of love but also out of practicality. They also look to strengthen their houses and clans so they will marry out of obligation as much as out of love.
Children
In Essillion most people try for large families and children are expected to help with the family business whenever they can. The upper class and nobles have less children as they do not fear death of their offspring as acutely as the peasantry or middle class. Wealth and access to health and the Divine offer the nobles more choices in their family planning. Clerics of Pristell are well known for their excellent breeding techniques.
Male and female children are equally respected and can take leadership positions as warranted. Thanks to the special relationship between
Curceon and
Pristell, their followers share members of both genders. However, males still dominate the ranks of Curceon while women favour Pristell.
In
Avandar they discourage large families, and most will have only one child to keep their line going. Lack of land and resources keep most families comfortable with this philosophy. Male and female children are equally respected and cherished in Avandar. Everyone has potential to make Avandar great, regardless of gender.
Old Age
Long standing traditions and reverence for the past is built into the Essillion mindset. They treat their aged the same way. Experience and wisdom is sought after. Those who have lived a long life have much to offer. As long as an individual is still capable, they are encouraged to continue in their chosen profession in some manner, as either a mentor, a teacher, or skilled worker.
While the people of Avandar still respect their elders, they do not value their wisdom as much, preferring to work on new plans, new ways of doing things, and moving forward. Many elders still dream of bygone days which keeps them in the past.
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