Overview of Gor

A very different setting

Gor is distinct from both medieval Earth and typical medieval fantasy worlds like "Game of Thrones" in several significant ways.

Firstly, Gor's origin is extraterrestrial. It was transported to our solar system by the Priest-Kings, an advanced alien race, about two million years ago. This contrasts with medieval Earth, which developed naturally over time. The Priest-Kings have imposed strict technological limitations on Gor, maintaining a society that is closer to nature and less industrialized compared to medieval Earth, which saw gradual technological advancements.

Secondly, Gor's societal structure is unique. It is divided into High and Low Castes, with a system known as the Double Knowledge. The Low Castes are taught a series of falsehoods about the nature of reality, while the High Castes are privy to more accurate information. This educational disparity is not found in medieval fantasy worlds like "Game of Thrones," where knowledge is more uniformly distributed among the nobility and commoners.

Moreover, the concept of the Home Stone, a symbol of sovereignty and territory, is central to Gorean life and has no direct equivalent on medieval Earth or in typical medieval fantasy settings. The caste system and the pervasive institution of slavery also set Gor apart. While slavery exists in medieval fantasy worlds, it is not as universally accepted or as deeply integrated into the societal fabric as it is on Gor.

Additionally, Gor's environment and fauna are distinct. The planet has three moons and a different gravitational pull, which affects its climate and geography. Certain Earth animals, like horses and dogs, do not exist on Gor, and are replaced by creatures like kaiila and sleen. This contrasts with medieval fantasy worlds, which often feature Earth-like animals and ecosystems.

Lastly, the philosophical underpinnings of Gorean society differ significantly. Gorean morality is based on the acceptance of human nature and biological differences between men and women, promoting a master-slave dynamic. This is in stark contrast to the more egalitarian or feudal systems seen in medieval fantasy worlds like "Game of Thrones," where power dynamics are more fluid and based on political maneuvering rather than inherent biological roles.

In summary, Gor's alien origin, unique societal structures, distinct environment, and philosophical foundations make it fundamentally different from medieval Earth and typical medieval fantasy worlds.

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.

Different Cultures on Gor

Ar and most of Central Gor

Historical Earth Culture: Ancient Rome

Similarities: Extensive influence over other cities, high regard for quality and style, and a complex calendar system.

Differences: Unique festivals such as Kajuralia and the Planting Feast of Sa: Tarna, and the concept of the Home Stone.

Recommended Reading: Tarnsman of Gor, Assassin of Gor, Magicians of Gor

Port Kar

Historical Earth Culture: Pirate Havens (e.g., Port Royal)

Similarities: Known for piracy, cruelty, and a strong naval presence.

Differences: Unique societal structure with the Council of Captains, and the only known Caste of Thieves on Gor.

Recommended Reading: Raiders of Gor, Captive of Gor, Hunters of Gor

Vosk Region

Historical Earth Culture: Various River: based Civilizations

Similarities: Importance of river trade and strategic locations along the river.

Differences: Formation of the Vosk League to combat piracy and maintain independence.

Recommended Reading: Rogue of Gor, Guardsman of Gor, Fighting Slave of 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