Sæcular

A Sæcular is a person among the general populace outside the maths—those who live extramuros in the Saeculum. They are distinct from the avout who keep the Cartasian Discipline within concents. Among avout, the colloquial term “extras” is sometimes used for them.

In-Text Context

During a chalk-hall lesson on how outsiders view the mathic world, a fid’s use of “extras” is corrected to “Sæculars.” The class discusses how Sæculars know of the maths but often rely on simplified, recurring portrayals—“iconographies”—to make sense of them. Separately, an entry in The Dictionary on the Incanter characterizes the “Sæcular mind” as susceptible to legends drawn from entertainment; one influential view holds that many Sæculars’ inability to distinguish such entertainments from reality contributed to a past calamity known as the Third Sack.

Roles and Relationships

• Sæculars inhabit the world outside the walls and interact with maths mainly during Apert, when gates open briefly.
• They are not the same as the Sæcular Power, a formal non-mathic authority, though Sæculars live under it and its institutions.
• In discussion, it is noted that Sæculars generally do not track differences among the avout Orders, which can make all avout vulnerable to the same stereotypes.

Portrayals and Iconographies

Avout who study extramuros have cataloged recurring Sæcular portrayals into “iconographies.” Examples mentioned in discussion include the Temnestrian, Doxan, Yorran, Muncostran, Pendarthan, Klevan, Baudan, Penthabrian, and a hybrid called the Moshianic. These range from mocking or fearful caricatures to reverent or messianic expectations. At present, the Moshianic—framing avout as bringers of enlightenment—is said to be ascendant in the guise of the “Warden of Heaven,” raising attention and expectations around gate-openings.

Characteristics and Behavior (as described)

• Sæcular attitudes toward avout can be shaped by the iconography they subscribe to; this influences how they speak to, defer to, or react against avout.
• An example given contrasts formal action by the Sæcular Power with unpredictable mob reactions, the latter being harder for avout to anticipate or defend against.

Current Status

Sæculars are broadly present across the Saeculum beyond the concents. Their contact with avout is limited and formal, with increased visibility and traffic during Apert.