What countries are Dragon Age based on?

What Countries are Dragon Age Based On?

The Dragon Age franchise is a beloved series of role-playing games that has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. Set in the fantasy world of Thedas, the games are known for their engaging storylines, memorable characters, and richly detailed world-building. But where did the developers draw inspiration for the various countries and cultures in the Dragon Age universe? In this article, we’ll explore the real-world countries and historical periods that influenced the creation of the Dragon Age world.

Rivain – Islamic Spain and Africa

One of the most obvious inspirations for Rivain, the southern kingdom in Dragon Age, is Islamic Spain and Africa. The architecture, clothing, and cultural practices of the Rivaini people are all reminiscent of the Moorish and Arab cultures that flourished in the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa during the Middle Ages. The use of arches, domes, and minarets in Rivaini architecture is a clear nod to Islamic architecture, while the emphasis on trade, commerce, and cultural exchange reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Antiva – Renaissance Italy

Antiva, the city-state in Dragon Age, is heavily influenced by Renaissance Italy. The ornate architecture, grand piazzas, and ornate fountains of Antiva are all reminiscent of the great cities of Italy during the Renaissance. The city’s emphasis on art, literature, and philosophy is also a nod to the cultural and intellectual flowering of the period. The use of ornate masks and elaborate costumes in Antivan fashion is also a reference to the elaborate masks and costumes worn by the nobility of Renaissance Italy.

Nevarra – Basque Country and Latin America

Nevarra, the kingdom in Dragon Age, is inspired by the Basque Country and Latin America. The architecture, clothing, and cultural practices of the Nevarri people are all reminiscent of the Basque region in northern Spain and southwestern France, as well as the Latin American countries that were colonized by Spain and Portugal. The use of stone and wood in Nevarrian architecture is a nod to the traditional building materials of the Basque region, while the emphasis on family, community, and social hierarchy reflects the strong social bonds and family ties that are characteristic of Latin American cultures.

Tevinter Imperium – Byzantine Empire

The Tevinter Imperium, the ancient empire in Dragon Age, is heavily influenced by the Byzantine Empire. The architecture, art, and cultural practices of the Tevinter people are all reminiscent of the Byzantine Empire, which was the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire. The use of domes, arches, and mosaics in Tevinter architecture is a clear nod to Byzantine architecture, while the emphasis on hierarchy, tradition, and authority reflects the Byzantine Empire’s strong emphasis on these values.

Ferelden – Medieval England

Ferelden, the kingdom in Dragon Age, is inspired by medieval England. The architecture, clothing, and cultural practices of the Fereldari people are all reminiscent of medieval England, from the Norman Conquest to the Tudor period. The use of stone and timber in Fereldari architecture is a nod to the traditional building materials of medieval England, while the emphasis on chivalry, honor, and loyalty reflects the strong social bonds and codes of conduct that were characteristic of medieval English society.

Orlais – 18th-Century France

Orlais, the kingdom in Dragon Age, is heavily influenced by 18th-century France. The architecture, art, and cultural practices of the Orlaisi people are all reminiscent of the French Enlightenment and the Age of Absolutism. The use of grand châteaux, ornate gardens, and lavish furnishings in Orlaisi architecture is a clear nod to the excesses of the French monarchy, while the emphasis on reason, science, and progress reflects the intellectual and cultural flowering of the period.

The Free Marches – Scotland

The Free Marches, the region in Dragon Age, is inspired by Scotland. The architecture, clothing, and cultural practices of the Marchers are all reminiscent of Scotland, from the rugged highlands to the bustling cities. The use of stone and thatch in Marcher architecture is a nod to the traditional building materials of Scotland, while the emphasis on independence, self-reliance, and community reflects the strong social bonds and sense of national identity that are characteristic of Scottish culture.

In Conclusion

The Dragon Age franchise is a rich and complex world that draws inspiration from a wide range of real-world cultures and historical periods. From the Moorish and Arab cultures of Islamic Spain and Africa to the Renaissance cities of Italy, the Basque Country and Latin America, the Byzantine Empire, medieval England, 18th-century France, and Scotland, the world of Dragon Age is a vibrant tapestry of cultural influences and historical references. Whether you’re a fan of history, culture, or fantasy, there’s something for everyone in the world of Dragon Age.