Any discussion of culture is inseparably tied to race and
species. In the stories of the Realms a great number of species,
races, and cultures are shown and interacted with. However, the
single broadest distinction made between all of them has to do
with magic.
Magic insinuates itself into the very underpinnings of any
society where it is present. This is because by it's nature and
definition, magic is a way to accomplish tasks, in most cases,
without any tools. Hence, an aptitude for magic sets people
apart. The degree of separation varies widely. In the
Magocracies, possession of magical talent is necessary for
qualification in the noble class. In other societies, magic
wielders are hated and shunned—the ultimate villain.
Magic wielding cultures tend to fall into three subcategories:
cultures which practice eldritch magic, cultures that practice
shamanistic magic, and cultures that practice both. Shamanistic
only cultures tend to be isolated and follow the worship of one
or a few pantheon lords. Occasionally, shamanistic cultures may
exist is an secluded area where a broader practice of magic
typically prevails. The many Myrmigyne tribes are an example of
a rigid shamanistic following. The Myrmigynes worship and get
their magical powers from the Eternal Nethra, who, unlike the
pantheon lords, does not maintain avatars.
