Gender and Sexuality

As in many cultures dominated by a Patriarchic religion, there are currents of sexism that pervade most of the structures of society, though examples of female leadership and influence are present in all realms of endeavor. Adherence to class and cultural norms is generally prized more than obedience to ideas of gender norms. Transgenderism is not unknown but is largely expressed through adopting traditional culture or social roles that match a person’s actual gender rather than their assigned sex at birth. It’s expensive, but there are magical methods to alter, conceal, or enhance a person’s form according to gender identity.

Given that this is a hereditary and class-conscious society, heterosexuality is privileged over other forms of sexual expression, though perhaps oddly for a society so unified behind a single Faith, there is a relatively casual acceptance of other forms of sexual orientation, particularly in larger towns and cities. Prevalence of sexual orientation matches that of our world, so while many people are content to engage in heterosexual romance and sex, it is less stigmatized for someone to have a same-sex encounter or affair. Sex work is generally segregated geographically and economically within a city, though courtesans of both sexes and their agents can wield considerable economic and political power.

Marriage is reserved for heterosexual couples, but it is not unheard of for same-sex partners to engage in long-term and public relationships, and in civilized areas there are protections of law that could provide for such a partner to inherit wealth or be named as heir, and adoption is legal and common, particularly among the nobility and upper classes.