Alsonan
Alsonan refers to the human people of the Kingdom of Alsona. They are predominantly located in the northern lands of Emicara, and have been known to migrate towards the northern frontier. The Alsonans are best known as an adventurous and art-loving people, embracing all elements of culture and refinement, while constantly fixated upon the horizon and depths of the wilderness. Alsonans tend to favor bardic tradition over more common wizardly pursuits, seeking out power through fame rather than power through fortune, force of arms, or great accomplishments of magic.
Naming Traditions
Feminine names
Example Female Names: Mando, Michaella, Efimia, Sotiria, Fotoula, Stavroula, Polina, Elpida, Theodosia, Keti
Masculine names
Example Male Names: Sokratis, Perrallis, Vasilios, Apostolis, Sophocles, Iasonas, Nikitas, Mathaios, Trifonas, Matthaios
Family names
Example Family Names: Callidis, Perrallis, Spanallis, Tantalelis, Paulatos, Birakis, Zurlelis, Andrelis, Valloulis, Anastou
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Alsonans primarily speak Alsonan when within their home country, but many have learned Common and dwarvish. Regional variances in Alsonan dialects are minor if extant at all, with only small differences in accents among the various towns and cities. Those who grow up outside of Alsona typically adopt a common-influenced accent, and will often use loan words from Common to help express their points in conversation, leading to emerging mixtures of dialects on the Alsonan frontiers.
Culture and cultural heritage
The foundation of Alsonan culture is music. Music resonates across the souls of all Alsonans, and is the force that binds the nation together. The King, before his ascension to godhood, was said to have been the greatest of musicians, and all would-be Alsonan heroes seek to emulate his performance. Outside of the Kingdom of Alsona itself, Alsonan bards are prized and treasured in foreign courts, as few institutes in other Emicaran nations can match the skill and knowledge of Alsonan musicians and learning. Alsonans typically branch out into appreciations of all fine artwork, but tend to neglect literature and writing, in favor of more visual and audio arts.
Art & Architecture
Alsonan architecture is some of the most beautiful to be found in Emicara. Typically built from hewed stone or marble, the buildings of Alsona are designed both for permanence and beauty. The main feature of Alsonan architecture rests in the carvings, however, which lavishly decorate even the most humble of abodes. Regardless of whether its built of wood or stone, every building and structure tells the story of its builders, occupants, and use. Showing family histories, events of the past, or even just how the building should be used all decorate the doors and exteriors of every building, and skill carvers are always in high demand among Alsonans.
Ideals
Gender Ideals
Among Alsonan families, the women take priority. Inheritance and succession is often done through a matriarchal standpoint, and the majority of rulers and individuals of power are female. Men assume a subordinate role among Alsonans, as it is believed among many Alsonans that the only man to be held first by anyone should be The King. It is assumed that women are the leaders of Alsonan families, and they are responsible for most household decisions and advancements to be made. Men on the other hand, are believed to be best suited for fighting and protecting the Alsonan way of life, and are meant for following orders, rather than creating them.
Related Organizations
Languages spoken
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