Cartasian math

Cartasian math refers to the standard form of a mathic community shaped by the Cartasian Discipline (rule set). In such places, the avout (cloistered scholars) live within walled precincts, follow strict customs, and are admitted only after a formal Vow (oath not to leave).

Context and usage

• Gate exchanges are described as formulaic “since Saunt Cartas,” including a warning that one may not pass unless a solemn promise is made not to depart.
• The term is used comparatively: a site may be “like a Cartasian math” when it resembles the form and customs of a Cartasian community.

Common features

• Entry conditioned on swearing the Vow (oath not to leave).
• Enclosed precincts commonly organized as a Concent (walled monastic complex).
• Residents identified as avout (cloistered scholars) living under the Cartasian Discipline (rule set).
• Community standards enforced across concents by the Inquisition (oversight authority).
• Examples include precincts such as the Decenarian Math within the Concent of Saunt Edhar.

Contrast observed at Orithena

At Orithena, gatekeepers employ Cartasian-style language about the Vow, and the place outwardly presents like a math; however, it is explicitly identified as a cloister of a Lineage (ancient scholarly tradition) that predates Cartas. There, a visitor was not required to swear the Vow and had the sense of being free to depart, marking a departure from Cartasian practice while preserving the outward form for those outside.

Notes

• Practices can vary between maths; “Cartasian” here denotes alignment with Cartas-derived customs rather than a single named precinct.
• The term is descriptive; it is not the formal name of any one math.