I believe it's been documented that FFXIV's city-states were partly inspired by those of Ancient Greece, and that Garlemald is the game's equivalent of the Persian Empire.

So, yes, geographical references are certainly part of what I hope to talk about. But it's not just that. I'm also interested in the various themes and concepts presented in the story.

For example, when characters like Minfilia and Iceheart talk about peace and freedom, to what extent do their beliefs echo (pun intended) those of our own, in the real world?