A character I would recommend making for purely learning purposes is either a human mercenary or sorcerer (correct spelling ftw
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).
Humans are incredibly versatile, so no matter what alignment you pick, you at least won't be discriminated against for your race as you would with a griffon or deep-elf.
Mercenaries are physical powerful and easily built stat-wise, and while sorcerers may be a bit difficult to level at first for some, it gets easier over time. They're easily built stat-wise, as well, and they also get some great spells for transportation, and the spell identify will help you get familiar with information regarding weapons, armor, and other random items you find.
There was actually a thread about advice for the best race/class combos for newbies, wasn't there? I can't remember if it was here or another SK forum.