Free Men on Gor

When role-playing a free man on Gor, it is crucial to understand that Earth customs and values do not apply. The societal norms and legal structures of Gor are distinct and must be embraced to create an authentic character. Immersing oneself in the mindset of a Gorean is essential, thinking and acting as a Gorean would, rather than imposing Earth-based ethical systems or philosophies onto the character.

Cheat Sheet

1. Don't assume that Earth customs and values apply to Gor. The societal norms and legal structures are different. Avoid imposing Earth-based ethical systems or philosophies onto your Gorean character. Embrace the ethical stance of the Gorean society.
2. Generally avoid using modern technology or concepts that do not exist in the Gorean setting.
3. Don't ignore the caste system and its implications. Your character's caste affects their behavior, status, and interactions.
4. Generally avoid portraying your character as an exception to Gorean norms without a strong, plausible reason.
5. Don't neglect the importance of honor and respect in Gorean society. Your character should act in ways that reflect these values. Gorean men treat each other with respect, even enemies. Tea bagging is not Gorean.
6. Don't forget to immerse yourself in the mindset of a Gorean. Think and act as a Gorean would, not as a person from Earth.
7. Generally avoid unrealistic role-play scenarios, such as easily capturing or killing other characters without considering the setting's defenses and societal norms.
8. Don't disrespect the property rights of others, especially regarding slaves. This includes not killing or maiming slaves without considering the legal and social consequences.

Hierarchical Society and Caste System

• Caste System: Almost every free person in the cities of Gor belongs to a caste, which dictates their social status and occupation. This system is rigid and hierarchical, with High and Low Castes, and specific roles within each caste.
• Double Knowledge: The Low Castes are taught certain untruths to keep them in their place, such as believing the world is flat and that magic exists.

Legal and Social Norms

• Legal Slavery: Slavery is a legal and accepted institution on Gor, with no abolitionist movements. Free men often own slaves, and the societal structure supports this practice.
• Judicial Systems: Gorean cities have codified laws and judicial systems to handle violations. Free men must consider these laws and their caste codes in their actions.

Gender Dynamics and Dominance

• Male Dominance: The society is patriarchal, with men holding dominant roles. Free men are expected to be strong and assertive, often taking what they wish by force.
• Free Women vs. Slaves: Free women are respected but are considered less desirable than slaves, who are seen as the ultimate expression of female beauty and submission.

Male Dominance

The society is patriarchal, with men holding dominant roles. Free men are expected to be strong and assertive, often taking what they wish by force. Gorean men are described as fundamentally different from men of Earth, not just in physical attributes but in their character and psychology. They are large, strong, virile, confident, uncompromising, and powerful. The major differences lie in their cultural conditioning and acceptance of natural biological sovereignty. Gorean culture does not deny nature but embraces and enhances it:

• "They have never surrendered their manhood. They have never seen fit to relinquish their natural biological sovereignty. The Gorean culture does not deny nature but accepts it, acclaims it, relishes it, and enhances it".

Gorean men are accustomed to seeing women in bondage and view them in terms of their potential as slaves. This cultural norm significantly influences their interactions and perceptions of women:

• "They are accustomed to seeing beautiful women in bondage, their limbs and beauty well revealed by slave garb, their necks locked in collars. And there is nothing, of course, which so enflames the virility of a man as the sight of a slave girl".

Free Women vs. Slaves

Free women are respected but are considered less desirable than slaves, who are seen as the ultimate expression of female beauty and submission. Free women often treat males with contempt and ridicule, relying on the assumed protection of a common Home Stone. However, they are always at risk of being enslaved, especially if they do not share a Home Stone with the man:

• "It would be unusual, as I understand it, for a woman to be enslaved by a man with whom she shares a Home Stone. She might, of course, be enslaved for vagrancy, misdemeanors, or crimes. Too, it is generally accepted that a man may enslave a woman who has insulted him or in some way treated him badly, but this option is seldom acted upon, it seems, if a Home Stone is shared".

Free women are often proud, haughty, insolent, arrogant, and outspoken. They often treat males with contempt and ridicule, which is sometimes seen as "courting the collar":

• "Interestingly, Gorean free women are commonly proud, haughty, insolent, arrogant and outspoken. They often treat males with contempt and ridicule. They are relying on the assumed protection of a common Home Stone. Or perhaps it is their way of, as it is said, 'courting the collar'".

Interactions with Slaves

A Gorean free man’s interactions with slaves, whether they are his own or not, are characterized by dominance and control. He may do with his slaves as he pleases, and they are expected to be pleasing and obedient. The relationship is one of ownership and absolute power:

• "It is pleasant, as you might well imagine, receiving such attentions from a woman. It is particularly pleasant, I assure you, when she is a slave, for then she is owned, and you may do with her what you wish".

Slaves are trained to be pleasing to their masters, and failure to do so can result in punishment. The training can be conducted by both men and women, but many believe that only a man with total power over a woman can properly teach her to be a slave:

• "Many Goreans believe that the finest of slave trainers are men, and that only a man with a whip, and total power over a woman, can properly teach her to be a slave".

Slaves are expected to be sexually available and to serve their masters' needs. They are often in competition with other slaves to be the most pleasing:

• "For example, it is not unknown for a Gorean man to have more than one slave, that they may desperately compete with one another, each striving zealously to please him more than the other, that she may become his favorite".

Interactions with Free Women

Interactions with free women of his Home Stone are generally marked by a level of respect, although free women are still subject to the dominance of men. Free women can hold money and property, manage businesses, and occupy positions of importance, but they are still subject to the authority of men:

• "Despite the exalted status of free women, who are equal to men in the holding of a Home Stone, can hold money and property in their own right, may found, organize, and manage businesses, may occupy positions of importance and authority, even to the occupancy of thrones, and who may enter into relationships, or discontinue them, much as they please, the Free Companionship requiring an annual renewal, Gor is essentially a man’s world".

Free women from other cities or those who do not share a Home Stone with the man are considered fair game for capture and enslavement. This is a common practice, especially during times of war or conflict:

• "To make this matter more clear, and to be fairer to the customs of Gor, it should be noted that any woman, any woman whatsoever with whom one does not share a Home Stone, is understood to be fair game for the capture loop".

Free women who show interest in the lives of slaves or attempt to spy on them can also be at risk of being enslaved:

• "For example, sometimes free women attempt, sometimes even disguising themselves, to spy on the doings of masters and slaves. For example, they might attempt, perhaps disguised as lads, to gain entrance to paga taverns. And often such entrance is granted them but later, to their horror, they may find themselves thrown naked to the dancing sand and forced to perform under whips".

Mindset and Philosophy

• Thinking Like a Gorean: Role-playing a Gorean requires adopting a mindset that is vastly different from that of Earth. This includes accepting the hierarchical and patriarchal nature of Gorean society, as well as the normalized practice of slavery.
• Honor and Respect: Free men on Gor place a high value on honor and respect, both in their personal conduct and in their interactions with others. This includes loyalty to one's caste and city.

Thinking Like a Gorean

Role-playing a Gorean requires adopting a mindset that is vastly different from that of Earth. This includes accepting the hierarchical and patriarchal nature of Gorean society, as well as the normalized practice of slavery. Gorean men are described as being fundamentally different from men of Earth, not just in physical attributes but in their character and psychology. They are large, strong, virile, confident, uncompromising, and powerful. The major differences lie in their cultural conditioning and acceptance of natural biological sovereignty. Gorean culture does not deny nature but embraces and enhances it:

• "They have never surrendered their manhood. They have never seen fit to relinquish their natural biological sovereignty. The Gorean culture does not deny nature but accepts it, acclaims it, relishes it, and enhances it".

Gorean men are accustomed to seeing women in bondage and view them in terms of their potential as slaves. This cultural norm significantly influences their interactions and perceptions of women:

• "They are accustomed to seeing beautiful women in bondage, their limbs and beauty well revealed by slave garb, their necks locked in collars. And there is nothing, of course, which so enflames the virility of a man as the sight of a slave girl".

Honor and Respect

Free men on Gor place a high value on honor and respect, both in their personal conduct and in their interactions with others. This includes loyalty to one's caste and city. The concept of honor is deeply ingrained in Gorean society and is a guiding principle for many actions and decisions. For instance, the presence of kajirae (slave girls) in Gorean society is seen as contributing to its harmony, security, and stability:

• "The man whose sexual needs are well satisfied tends to be content, and he who is content is commonly happy, and he who is happy has no need to disrupt his society, hurt others, or prey on his fellows. I have no doubt that the presence of kajirae in Gorean society has much to do not only with its naturalness, for men desire slaves and slaves long for masters, but also with its general harmony, security, and stability".

Gorean men are also described as having deep feelings, whether it be anger, jealousy, friendship, or love. Their emotions are more openly expressed compared to men on Earth, and hypocrisy is regarded as a form of lying, unworthy of a man:

• "Goreans are usually individuals of deep feelings. Their anger tends to be deep, and their jealousies are deep; and their friendships and loyalties; and they hate deeply, and they love profoundly. On the whole, Gorean emotion tends to be more open than it is on Earth. On Gor hypocrisy is regarded as a form of lying, unworthy of a man, not as a virtue on which it is prudent to rely".

Conclusion

In summary, the mindset and philosophy of Gorean free men are deeply rooted in their cultural norms, which emphasize natural biological roles, honor, and respect. These elements create a society that is vastly different from other low magic medieval fantasy worlds, where the hierarchical and patriarchal structure is not only accepted but celebrated. The presence of slavery and the distinct roles of men and women further highlight the unique characteristics of Gorean society.

Male Relationships on Gor

Salt Brother

A "salt brother" is a term used in the context of the novel "Tribesmen of Gor" by John Norman. It refers to a bond formed between two individuals who have shared salt, symbolizing a deep and mutual trust.

Quotes ...

“Let there be salt between us,” he said. “Let there be salt between us,” I said. He placed salt from the small dish on the back of his right wrist. He looked at me. His eyes were narrow. “I trust,” said he, “you have not made jest of me.” “No,” I said. “In your hand,” he said, “steel is alive, like a bird.” The judge nodded assent. The boy’s eyes shone. He stood back. “I have never seen this, to this extent, in another man.” He looked at me. “Who are you?” he asked. I placed salt on the back of my right wrist. “One who shares salt with you,” I said. “It is enough,” he said. I touched my tongue to the salt in the sweat of his right wrist, and he touched his tongue to the salt on my right wrist. “We have shared salt,” he said. (Tribesmen of Gor) “We have shared salt,” he said. He then placed in my hand the golden tarn disk, of Ar, with which I had purchased my instruction. “It is yours,” I said. “How can that be?” he asked. “I do not understand,” I said. He smiled. “We have shared salt,” he said. (Tribesmen of Gor) “We had shared salt at Red Rock, on a burning roof. “My brother,” I said. “My brother,” he said. (Tribesmen of Gor) “You play Kaissa well,” had said Ivar Forkbeard. “Let us be friends.” “You, too, are quite skilled,” I told him. Indeed, he had much bested me. I still had not fathomed the devious variations of the Jarl's Ax's Gambit as played in the north. I expected, however, to solve it. We had shaken hands over the board. “Friend,” he had said. “Friend,” I had said. We had then tasted salt, each from the back of the wrist of the other. (Marauders of Gor)

Men of the Same Caste

Respect and Camaraderie: Men of the same caste generally treat each other with respect and camaraderie. They share common goals and values dictated by their caste codes, which fosters a sense of brotherhood and mutual support.

Men of Different Caste

Hierarchical Respect: Interactions between men of different castes are influenced by the hierarchical nature of the caste system. Higher castes are typically afforded more respect, while lower castes are expected to show deference. However, mutual respect is still common, especially if the individuals are of similar social standing.

Men of the Same Home Stone

Loyalty and Solidarity: Men who share the same Home Stone exhibit strong loyalty and solidarity. They are united by their allegiance to their city and its values, often working together to protect and advance their community's interests.

Men of a Different Home Stone They Are Not at War With

Cautious Respect: Men from different Home Stones who are not at war generally treat each other with cautious respect. While they may not share the same loyalty, they recognize each other's status as free men and often engage in trade or diplomacy.

Men Whose Home Stones Are at War

Hostility and Conflict: When Home Stones are at war, men from opposing cities treat each other as enemies. Hostility and conflict are common, and interactions are marked by aggression and attempts to gain advantage over the other.

Men Who They Meet in Battle

Combat Respect: In battle, men often respect their opponents' skills and bravery. This respect can extend to honorable treatment of prisoners and adherence to codes of conduct during warfare.

Men They Defeat

Dominance and Mercy: Victorious men may assert their dominance over those they defeat, but they can also show mercy. The treatment of defeated men varies, ranging from enslavement to honorable release, depending on the circumstances and the victor's disposition.

Men Who Defeat Them

Respect and Acknowledgment: Men who are defeated often show respect to their conquerors, acknowledging their superior skills or strategy. This respect can sometimes lead to alliances or the defeated seeking to learn from their experience.

Men Not of the Warrior Caste to Those of the Warrior Caste

Deference and Respect: Men who are not of the Warrior Caste typically show deference and respect to warriors. The Warrior Caste is highly esteemed for their combat skills and role in protecting the city, and this respect is reflected in social interactions.

Challenges and Conflict Resolution in Gorean Society

In Gorean society, not every challenge must be met with swords. The game of Kaissa, a form of Gorean chess, is often a more appropriate and civilized method for resolving disputes. This approach reflects the broader cultural values of Gor, where intellect and strategy are highly esteemed alongside physical prowess.

Kaissa: The Game of Strategy

Kaissa is a popular board game on Gor, akin to chess on Earth. It is played by individuals of all castes and is a testament to the Gorean appreciation for strategic thinking and mental acuity. The game is not merely a pastime but a respected method for settling disputes and demonstrating one's intellectual capabilities. The widespread participation in Kaissa underscores the value placed on mental dexterity and strategic planning in Gorean culture.

Rituals of Combat Among Warriors

When challenges do escalate to physical combat, the rituals and codes governing such encounters are designed to limit unnecessary bloodshed and foster camaraderie among warriors. Typically, a duel between warriors is fought only until the first blood is drawn. This practice emphasizes skill and honor over brute force and ensures that conflicts do not result in unnecessary fatalities. After such a duel, it is common for the participants to share a drink and often become valued friends rather than eternal foes.

The Role of Honor and Codes

Honor plays a crucial role in the lives of Gorean warriors. The Caste Codes, particularly those of the Warrior Caste, dictate the ethical standards and behaviors expected of individuals. A warrior's honor is tied to his adherence to these codes, which include principles of fairness, respect for one's opponent, and the responsible use of force. Violating these codes can lead to severe consequences, including expulsion from one's caste and city, highlighting the importance of maintaining one's honor in all actions.

Intellectual and Physical Balance

Gorean society values a balance between intellectual and physical capabilities. The greatest soldiers are often those who are also gifted intellectually. This dual emphasis ensures that warriors are not only skilled in combat but also capable of strategic thinking and leadership. The integration of mental and physical disciplines is seen as essential for the development of a well-rounded and effective warrior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gorean society offers a multifaceted approach to conflict resolution that values both intellectual and physical prowess. The game of Kaissa serves as a civilized alternative to combat, while the rituals and codes governing duels among warriors emphasize honor and skill over violence. This balance between mind and body is a cornerstone of Gorean culture, fostering a society where strategic thinking and ethical conduct are as important as martial abilities.

Unique Cultural Practices

Free Companionship

This is a form of marriage on Gor, but it is not as binding as Earth marriages. Free companionships can be renewed annually or dissolved easily, reflecting the less rigid nature of personal relationships. There is no marriage, as we know it, on Gor, but there is the institution of the Free Companionship, which is its nearest correspondent. Surprisingly enough, a woman who is bought from her parents, for tarns or gold, is regarded as a Free Companion, even though she may not have been consulted in the transaction. More commendably, a free woman may herself, of her own free will, agree to be such a companion. And it is not unusual for a master to free one of his slave girls in order that she may share the full privileges of a Free Companionship. One may have, at a given time, an indefinite number of slaves, but only one Free Companion. Such relationships are not entered into lightly, and they are normally sundered only by death. Occasionally the Gorean, like his brothers in our world, perhaps even more frequently, learns the meaning of love.

Warrior Codes

Warriors on Gor follow specific codes of conduct that emphasize strength, honor, and the right to take what they can by force. These codes are unique to the warrior caste and shape their behavior and interactions. For example, it is the option of a Gorean male to enslave any woman whose life he has saved, a right which is seldom denied even by the citizens of the girl's city or her family. Indeed, there have been cases in which a girl's brothers have had her clad as a slave, bound in slave bracelets, and handed over to her rescuer, in order that the honor of the family and her city not be besmirched.

Gorean Hospitality

Hospitality on Gor is a deeply ingrained cultural practice that varies across its regions. Common gestures include offering slaves to guests for the evening, which is seen as a mark of courtesy. Feasts and banquets often feature both free women and slaves, with slaves serving food and drink.

In Torvaldsland, guests are offered water to wash, emphasizing cleanliness and respect. Peasants, despite their simple living, are known for their hospitality, often sharing their own resources and providing basic necessities.

Ritualistic elements of hospitality include making libations to the Priest-Kings at banquets. Additionally, slaves serving at tables are often trained to offer themselves along with the food or drink they serve, making the act of serving an invitation of the slave's service for the evening.

Public Performances

Goreans tend to be fond of the arts, at least as they understand them. There are public readings of literary works, recitals of poetry, contests of dancing, musical contests, with various instruments, contests of choral singing, contests of plays, both comedic and dramatic, and so on. The participants in these municipal contests are almost always common citizens, volunteers, for on Gor the common citizen is as likely to be a participant as a spectator.

Capture and Enslavement

Warfare among polities is common on Gor, and the women of one polity are regarded by those of the other as objects suitable for apprehension, as prizes, as loot. When a city falls, her women, stripped and chained, are herded to the conquering city, to be sold, or, if kept, to serve and please the victors.

The Role of Music

Music plays a significant role in various aspects of Gorean life. Warriors might perform martial exercises to music, athletes might train to music, sa-tarna might be harvested to music, grain might be threshed to music, and galleys might be rowed to music. Work songs are common in the fields, and warriors might sing battle hymns while moving to engage the enemy.

Veiling of Free Women

Free women on Gor, particularly those of high caste, are almost always veiled in public. The veil is a significant part of their attire and serves to distinguish them from slaves. The removal of a free woman's veil is a momentous event, often associated with her capture or enslavement. The act of unveiling a free woman, referred to as "face-stripping," is deeply humiliating and signifies her loss of status and freedom.

The Institution of Capture

The harsh, exogamous institution of capture is woven into the very fabric of Gorean life. It is regarded as meritorious to abduct one's women from a foreign, preferably hostile city. Few seem to object to the institution of capture, not even the women who might seem to be its victims. Their vanity is terribly outraged if they are not regarded as worth the risks, usually mutilation and impalement.

The Role of the Whip

The presence of the whip in the slave’s vicinity, perhaps dangling from a hook where she can see it, is often enough to ensure a lovely perfection of female service. The typical Gorean master has no interest in whipping a slave merely to whip her. He wants his slave to be perfect in attentiveness, obedience, and responsiveness. Accordingly, he keeps her under a firm and consistent discipline. Severe, unwonted, gratuitous pain is not the Gorean way. The Gorean culture is so open and sexually fulfilling that females, at least slaves, are almost invariably looked upon not with hostility but with great pleasure and interest.

Role-Playing Challenges

• Role-Playing Limitations: Characters on Gor have specific limitations based on their caste, gender, and societal status. Embracing these limitations can enhance the role-playing experience by making it more realistic and challenging.
• Pure Role-Play: Gorean role-play often involves a high degree of personal investment and emotional involvement, making it more than just a game. This contrasts with the more detached and purely entertainment-focused role-play in other settings.