Culture of Fratanica

The culture of Fratanica refers to the arts, customs, and social institutions within the geographical location of Fratanica or its overseas territories. The culture has been influenced by various geographical, historical, and intellectual movements, such as the development of Ardouinian Christianity and the older traditions from various nation-states. Fratanica has a varied and storied culture, and different regions hold different customs and celebrations.

Language

The main language in Fratanica is English, with three nationally recognized "central languages": French, Scerian, and German. English, French, and German became common as a result of international trade and interactions, as well as the foundations of diaspora. The most traditional language is Scerian, which originated from the Kingdom of Sceria in 1185. This language system was developed in an effort to solidify the Kingdom's rule and create a new system of communication for subjects to learn. The use of Scerian faded slightly after the kingdom was broken up into different states, but resurged during the existence of the Sovereign Kingdom of Boulon.

Currently, the Fratanican education system emphasizes bilingualism in its schools. Through the education pipeline, students are taught mainly in English, but are required to gain proficiency in one of the three aforementioned languages. Students are tested on their bilingual proficiency through the Federal Education Certification Examination. Furthermore, many job opportunities in Fratanica recommend or require bilingual communication, further cementing the importance of bilingualism in Fratanican culture and society.

Literature

Current literature is wide-ranging and may encompass different characteristics, depending on the region. Common themes in Fratanican literature include individual and group empowerment, self-reliance, power of words, and the role of man.

Intellectual literature gained momentum due to religious and philosophical changes throughout the late 18th and early 19th century. Noted authors, such as Walter Heine and Arthur De Guignes, wrote philosophical and thinking-man fiction novels which still hold large weight in Fratanican society. This literature coincided with the Epoch of Rationale, which championed the values of logical reasoning, religious contemplation, and social individualism for the harmony of society. There was also an increase in theological literature due to permeance of Ardouinian Christianity and other religions throughout.

The early 20th century, with the rise of authoritarianism and dictatorial power, saw a stark increase in nationalist and patriotic books. Authors worked to create a distinct Fratanican literature identity, characterized by the values of national duty, social productivity, and group think. Many elements of literature from the Epoch of Rationale were banned or condemned.