Heresy!

Beware: It Can Happen In Any Campaign

by Michele Armellini

What is a Heresy?

Heresy is a deviation from the rule. It is a belief that runs contrary to the traditionally accepted ideas and teachings: therefore, it has the potential of shaking the very foundations of the prevalent philosophy or religion, conventional way of life, or common views about the universe. So, it is possibly the most destabilizing phenomenon that can take place in any given society.

Historically, heresies have been religious affairs -- but not always. Freethinkers and scientists were often treated as heretics: Socrates, Galileo. Political innovators who slug it out with a monolithic system might also be classed as heretics: Paine, Bakunin. Soviet dissidents were political heretics, and though they did not burn on the stake, they were sent to bedlams for their sins. Today, Falun Gong members are considered heretics, even though the authorities persecuting them are not religious ones. Tomorrow, who knows what will be against the accepted wisdom?

Heresy can happen anywhere, and it will have all sorts of far-reaching consequences. By its nature, it potentially concerns anyone, from kings to serfs -- including any kind of brave adventurers. It can serve as a gameworld backdrop, as an adventure hook, or as the ultimate mission of a playing characters' party. The heroes can be believers or adversaries, enforcers or negotiators, they can get involved unwillingly, they can be forced to take sides, . . .

This article originally appeared in the second volume of Pyramid. See the current Pyramid website for more information.

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Article publication date: September 6, 2002

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