Overview of Gor

Different Cultures on Gor

Torvaldslanders

- Historical Earth Culture: Vikings (800-1000 A.D.) - Similarities: Worship of Norse gods like Odin and Thor, seafaring lifestyle, and warrior ethos. - Differences: They wear horned helmets, which is a myth about Vikings on Earth. They also have a unique societal structure that includes the concept of the Home Stone, which is not present in Viking culture. - Recommended Reading: Marauders of Gor

Red Hunters

- Historical Earth Culture: Inuit (Eskimos) - Similarities: Inhabit northern polar regions, rely on hunting and fishing, and live in harsh, cold environments. - Differences: They believe in transmigration and reincarnation, which is not a common belief among the Inuit. They also have unique rituals and customs specific to their Gorean environment. - Recommended Reading: Beasts of Gor

Red Savages

- Historical Earth Culture: Native Americans (primarily the Sioux) - Similarities: Nomadic lifestyle, tribal organization, and use of tipis. - Differences: They use high beaded collars instead of steel collars for slaves, and they have unique rituals such as the use of a confinement circle for slaves. - Recommended Reading: Savages of Gor and Blood Brothers of Gor

Wagon Peoples

- Historical Earth Culture: Mongols - Similarities: Nomadic lifestyle, use of wagons, and emphasis on horsemanship. - Differences: They do not use swords commonly, preferring weapons like the lance, horn bow, quiva, rope, and bola. They also have a unique clan system and do not possess Home Stones. - Recommended Reading: Nomads of Gor

Tribesmen of the Tahari

- Historical Earth Culture: Bedouins of the Middle East - Similarities: Nomadic desert lifestyle, use of tents, and tribal organization. - Differences: They have unique Gorean customs and laws, such as the strict regulation of water and the use of kaiila, a Gorean animal, for transportation. - Recommended Reading: Tribesmen of Gor

Tribes within the Jungles near Schendi

- Historical Earth Culture: African tribes - Similarities: Tribal organization, use of spears and shields, and jungle environment. - Differences: Presence of unique Gorean flora and fauna, and specific rituals and customs not found in African tribes. - Recommended Reading: Explorers of Gor

Nomadic Alars

- Historical Earth Culture: Alans (conquered by the Huns) - Similarities: Nomadic lifestyle and warrior culture. - Differences: They have unique Gorean customs and social structures, such as the use of kaiila for transportation and specific rituals related to their nomadic lifestyle. - Recommended Reading: Mercenaries of Gor

Rencers

- Historical Earth Culture: Ancient Egyptians (papyrus plant usage) - Similarities: Use of the rence plant similar to the use of papyrus. - Differences: They have unique Gorean customs and social structures, such as the use of the peasant bow and specific rituals related to their environment. - Recommended Reading: Raiders of Gor

Ethics and Values on Gor: A Summary

Gorean ethics and values are deeply rooted in the societal and cultural structures of Gor, emphasizing a distinct set of principles that differ significantly from those on Earth. Here are the key aspects:

Caste Codes

• Caste-Specific Ethics: Each caste on Gor has its own set of codes that dictate the ethical standards and behaviors expected of its members. These codes are professional in nature, guiding individuals on how to perform their roles within their caste.
• Honor: Honor is a central value in Gorean society, closely tied to adherence to one's caste codes. A person who fails to follow their caste codes is often seen as lacking honor.

Virtue Ethics

• Cardinal Virtues: Gorean morality is heavily influenced by ancient Greek and Roman virtue ethics, focusing on the four cardinal virtues: wisdom, courage, self-control, and justice. These virtues form the core of Gorean ethical standards.
• Agent-Centered Morality: Gorean ethics emphasize the cultivation of personal virtues over adherence to a strict set of rules. This approach is about becoming a good person through the development of virtues rather than merely following prescribed actions.

General Ethical Principles

• Natural Order: Goreans believe in living in accordance with nature, which includes accepting natural hierarchies and the dominance of males over females. This principle is ingrained in their societal norms and behaviors.
• Honor and Truth: Goreans take concepts like honor and truth very seriously. Honesty is valued, but there are acceptable exceptions, such as subterfuge in warfare. A person's sworn word is considered a matter of honor.

Societal Norms

• Hierarchy and Inequality: Gorean society is hierarchical, and individuals are not considered equal. This belief in natural inequality influences their social interactions and ethical considerations.
• Cultural Conditioning: The principles of Gorean ethics are so ingrained in their culture that they are second nature to its people. These principles are rarely questioned and are maintained through strong traditions.

In summary, Gorean ethics and values are centered around the cultivation of personal virtues, adherence to caste-specific codes, and living in accordance with the natural order. Honor, courage, and truth are paramount, and societal norms are deeply hierarchical and traditional.