 Britain at the turn of the 19th century is shown to be much like it was in reality; historical attitudes towards women are strong enough in the story that the existence of female officers and captains is kept secret from the public.Much of Laurence's character development in "His Majesty's Dragon" involves his typical 19th-century values clashing with aviator society in regards to military discipline, sexual mores, class status, and women's capability; aviators are more relaxed, unconcerned with sexual propriety, of a mix of classes, and the preferences of dragons requires that women serve as captains.The character Jane Roland, for example, is a combat veteran recognized as a figure of authority and is unashamed that her daughter is "natural-born" (as well as serving as a "midwingman").