Table of Contents
“Why do the Chestertons always get to host the Debut Ball? Another family should have the opportunity, especially now the dukedom has passed to some uninspiring nephew of the late duke.”
“Because that is how Her Majesty wishes for it to be.”
– The conclusion of a conversation between two duchesses
Politics
Formal politics is not expected to be a notable theme of The Social Season, so this page primarily clarifies the scope of the game and provides background information that may be useful to know OC.
The Royal Family
This setting is based on Regency London, so the political system is similar to that of the United Kingdom at the time. King George III sits on the throne, but, due to his illness, his son (the Prince Regent and future King George IV) has the royal power and duties. King George III's wife, Queen Charlotte, is his guardian and carries out royal duties alongside her son.
The Royal Family are the only real-world figures planned to have significance during the game, but they will exist mostly in the background, rather than directly intervening in any events. In The Social Season, Queen Charlotte looks favourably upon the Chesterton family and has for decades given them the honour of hosting the most important balls of the season. The Royal Family are treated with respect and reverence by almost every member of the Ton.
General Political Overview
Parliament, composed of the House of Commons and House of Lords, is also a powerful force. Titled members of the peerage hold seats in the House of Lords and wealthy members of the Ton or heirs to peerages sometimes became members of Parliament in the House of Commons. There is a growing movement to demand more rights for the working class, but this is largely outwith the scope of the game.
Character Guidance
Players are discouraged from creating characters who are political revolutionaries, although they may be sympathetic towards people of lower classes and believe that the current system is unfair. Characters may have or develop strong bonds with members of lower classes, but this is rare and the relationships would be scandalous if discovered. It will not be possible for characters to cause any change to the political system during this game. Players should also consider the restrictions of the CAT Policy and note that this means that the world of The Social Season differs from real world history in significant ways.