Culture

What defines this culture’s identity?

Write a scene where someone from this culture explains what makes them who they are.

How does the culture view its place in the world?

How do these beliefs shape their behavior and interactions with other cultures?

What are the culture’s core values?

Think family, honor, knowledge, strength, etc.?

What is the culture's attitude toward outsiders?

Imagine a character from another culture trying to befriend someone from this culture, and the challenges they face.

How does the culture define...

Success vs. failure? Progress vs. stability? Individuality vs. community?

How is the culture organized socially?

Think monarchy, caste system, egalitarian, merit-based, etc.?

Who's at the top?

Is this power inherited, earned, elected, etc.?

Who's at the bottom?

Who is excluded, marginalized, or subjugated in society? How are they treated by those in power?

What is the culture's approach to social mobility?

How is status determined or earned? Is it easy for people to rise or fall within the social hierarchy?

What are the social expectations in this culture?

How does it differ depending on class?

What professions are considered prestigious or important in this culture?

What do people dream of becoming when they're children?

How do people in this culture dress for the day?

And what does it say about how fashion is used to project identity or social alignment?

What are the cultural taboos or unspoken rules in this culture?

E.g., are there certain topics or behaviors that are avoided at all costs?

What are the everyday courtesies people practice in this culture?

E.g., are there formal rituals for greeting or parting ways?

What is the role of food in this culture’s customs and traditions?

Are there traditional dishes or ingredients that carry cultural significance?

What are the most important festivals in this culture?

How are they celebrated?

What works of artwork are famous in this culture?

Why?

What books are famous in this culture?

Why?

What myths are known by everyone in this culture?

Write one such myth out.

Who are the famous artists, performers, and writers in this culture?

How are they regarded?

How does the culture define beauty and creativity?

Is there a specific aesthetic that is considered beautiful or worthy of admiration?

What is the dominant belief system in this culture?

E.g., polytheism, monotheism, animism, secularism, etc.?

How do people in this culture practice their faith or spirituality?

Write a scene where a character participates in or witnesses a ritual.

Who are the religious leaders in this culture?

How did they come to power?

What sacred texts are central to the culture's faith?

And what key stories or myths are told to explain the origins of the culture, the gods, or the world itself?

What sacred places or objects are significant in this culture's religion?

E.g., holy sites, precious amulets, etc.?

What languages do people speak in this culture?

And are there linguistic divisions between classes, regions, ethnic groups, etc.?

How does the culture use non-verbal communication?

How important is eye contact, personal space, or physical touch in conversation?

How is humor expressed in this culture?

E.g., irony, sarcasm, playfulness, etc.? How does humor reflect the culture’s attitude toward life?

How does this culture approach conflict?

For instance, are they direct or avoidant about it?

What are the unspoken rules for etiquette in this culture?

And who is the etiquette meant for?

How do people spend their mornings in this culture?

Write out a sample morning routine for your character.

How do people spend their afternoons in this culture?

Write out a sample afternoon routine for your character.

How do people spend their evenings in this culture?

Write out a sample evening routine for your character.

How do weekdays differ from weekends?

Write out a sample weekend routine for your character.

How does a typical day differ depending on class or status in this culture?

Imagine a day in the life of a worker, leader, and student in this culture.