Math

Math refers to a walled scholarly community and the broader institution of such enclaves that make up the mathic world. The term is used both for a specific place (a math) and for the institution that contrasts with life extramuros (outside the walls). One observed community is the Decenarian math, which illustrates many of these practices.

First introduction and context

Math is introduced alongside a dictionary note contrasting the mathic world with the world extramuros. Within the story, a visiting artisan from outside is interviewed in the New Library inside a math, highlighting the separation between the two worlds and the rules that govern life within the walls.

Practices and Discipline

Life in a math is governed by a Discipline that restricts tools and media. Under the Cartasian Discipline, those inside describe their permitted media as “chalk, ink, and stone,” and they avoid common extramuros devices and communications. Visitors are required to disable such devices and follow instructions closely.

Gardens and cultivated spaces are regulated by rule and custom; work in these areas (such as weeding) may be assigned as penance. Copying of texts continues in designated spaces, often with elder avout assisted by younger pupils.

A periodic observance called Apert is associated with maths. Different communities observe Apert on different cycles; at least one is referred to as a Decenarian math, and some avout celebrate Apert only once every hundred years. The precise rules and significance of these cycles have not yet been explained.

Roles and organization

Individuals living within a math are called avout. Local governance and rule enforcement are suggested by references to a Warden Regulant and to a group called the Ita who help manage procedures for visitors. Details of these roles remain to be clarified.

Daily operation includes timekeeping duties: teams of avout wind a large clock, and others ring extended sequences on the bells during certain observances. Younger students (sometimes called fids) work under the guidance of elder fraas and suurs and take on apprenticeships and chores.

Structures and spaces

• Cloister: A roofed gallery surrounding a central garden that functions as the heart of the community’s daily circulation. Pathways, herb beds, and occasional trees are tended within, and adjoining arches open into key buildings.
• Scriptorium: A workspace for copying and illuminating texts.
• Libraries: An Old Library with very ancient fabric and a newer library building; both are central to study and record‑keeping.
• Refectory and chalk halls: Spaces for meals and instruction, respectively.
• Clock and bells: Prominent fixtures of daily life, tended by assigned teams.

Relationship with the outside world

Maths are distinct from, and often contrasted with, the world extramuros. They are described as protected by a Sæcular Power. Access from outside may be permitted for specific purposes (such as needed repairs) but is tightly controlled, with designated areas and oversight.

Terminology and usage

In in‑world linguistic notes, terms connected to maths are tracked across historical forms of Orth in entries compiled in The Dictionary. Usage can shift over time; for example, some senses of “cloister” connect it closely to the mathic institution as a whole. In common narration and dialogue, speakers may refer to either a specific enclave or to the broader institution as “the math.”

Notable features observed so far

• A New Library and a prominent clock are present in the observed math; timekeeping chimes mark points such as Provener.
• External recording of events (e.g., using a “speelycaptor”) may be allowed only under strict conditions and supervision.

Further details about the history, structures (such as distinctions between different communities), and the full scope of mathic practices will be expanded as more is revealed in the text.