Every class has a storyline where you begin as a greenhorn, go through various trials and get stronger as it progresses. I'd say the classes themselves are presented more to resemble real life professions. I.e. you're not the chosen one or some prodigal child that was foretold to be a mage as you might be presented in other MMOs. You're just a guy with a strong will that is eager to learn. Think it makes perfect sense within the game.