Likewise a Gori (whether Maran or Babeester) might find it impractical to join her local temple. The reason for this range from a quarrel (even a feud) with the High Priestess, to accidental sacrilege (Yes, often this would be dealt with by appeasing the Spirit of Reprisal; but after that, do you want such an ill-omened person around the shrine?).
In either case, the Gori would have to prove herself against the enemies of Earth for any temple to accept such an exile.
A larger but related question: at initiation [whenever that is; I do NOT mean to open that can of worms], young Theyalans choose between the Way of Orlanth and the Way of Ernalda, between male-stereotype and female-stereotype careers. Roughly half of them choose each way; 85% or so in accordance with their sex, but not all. Most of the exceptions follow a special talent, like Geo's cooking or Griselda's theft and manslaying. This choice must be substantially free ("No-one can make me do anything!"); so the attractions, the day-dreams, must be about equal on either side.
Now the Way of Orlanth offers, as possible prizes, Orlanth's crown,
Issaries' wealth, LM's knowledge, Humakt's renown, Lambril's booty.
(Eurmal's fun??)
The Way of Ernalda offers the honors of Chalana Arroy, the matronly dignity
of Ernalda, the pleasures of Uleria. Is this list equal? If not, what else
is there?
Note: I do believe that the Way of Ernalda has equal dignity and power to Orlanth; I'm just not sure I see how.
Paul MacLean Anderson
pmanderson_at_hotmail.com
"I'm not making this up, you know!"
End of The Glorantha Digest V7 #86
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