Fantasy, mystery, thrillers, horror, historical. . .I write it all, and review it too!

Oct 17, 2011

Could clerics shed blood? The example of Bishop Odo

Anyone who played D&D in their youth knows that clerics aren't allowed to shed blood, and thus have to carry maces instead of swords. I always thought that was a ridiculous rule first because it wouldn't work--brain someone with a mace and see just how much blood you get--and second because I failed to see the historical connection. Medieval priests often fought, although technically they were not supposed to take up arms of any kind. So I always wondered where Gygax and Company got this idea.

Perhaps they got it from Bishop Odo, William the Conqueror's half brother. The Bayeux Tapestry, which Odo probably commissioned, shows him riding into battle flourishing a club with the caption, "Hic Odo Eps (Episcopus) Baculu(m) Tenens Confortat Pueros", in English "Here Odo the Bishop holding a club strengthens the boys".

So he may not even have used his club as a weapon, but rather as sort of a command staff like the later swagger stick. But another part of the tapestry shows William the Conqueror with a club. Also, in the age of chainmail a club wasn't such a bad weapon. Not as good as a flail (my personal favorite) and certainly not as good as the later medieval handgonnes, but not a bad choice for someone who has sworn never to take up a sword. Odo led troops in battle on numerous occasions, so he might have discovered how effective a club is firsthand.

The goblinkin in my fantasy novel Roots Run Deep are also saddled with primitive weapons. The ruling humans treat them as second-class citizens and, like any group of oppressors, fear those they oppress. Thus they ban goblins and hobgoblins from using metal weapons. Instead our green friends use mauls, quarterstaves, flint knives, clubs like good old Bishop Odo, and a special fighting stick called a tfaa.

39 comments:

  1. Hi! I'm still hopping from last week's blogfest. What a treat to find this great blog!

    ReplyDelete
  2. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  3. The term “Cord Cutter” has become synonymous with cost-savings and on-demand entertainment. According to techopedia.com,

    solutions for cable companies

    ReplyDelete
  4. There’s definately a lot to know about this issue. I really like all the points you made. 토토

    ReplyDelete
  5. Wonderful post! We are linking to this great post on our website. Keep up the good writing. 토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  6. Thanks for sharing with us such a mind-blowing post. I am really impressed with the information you have provided. Keep up the good work 경마사이트

    ReplyDelete
  7. Awesome! Its really amazing post, I have got much clear idea on the topic from this post.
    토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  8. Excellent Blog! I would like to thank for the efforts you have made in writing this post. I am hoping the same best work from you in the future as well. 섯다

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thankyou for giving me useful information.
    Please keep posting. 경마사이트

    ReplyDelete
  10. What’s up, just wanted to mention, I liked
    this post. It was practical. Keep on posting! 카지노사이트

    ReplyDelete
  11. I would like to show thanks to you just for rescuing me from this particular matter. Just after checking throughout the the web and getting notions that were not powerful.
    온라인카지노

    ReplyDelete
  12. I am thankful that I found this website , precisely the right info that I was searching for!
    온라인카지노

    ReplyDelete
  13. Good write-up, I am regular visitor of one’s blog, maintain up the nice operate, and It’s going to be a regular visitor for a long time.
    스포츠토토

    ReplyDelete
  14. I’m impressed, I have to admit. Rarely do I encounter a blog that’s both educative and interesting 야동


    ReplyDelete
  15. I simply want to tell you that I am very new to blogging and site-building and really enjoyed your blog. Likely I’m likely to bookmark your website . You amazingly have superb writings. Cheers for sharing with us your web page. 야동

    ReplyDelete
  16. I certainly appreciate this site. Thank you so much for this article, it saved me time! 중국야동넷

    ReplyDelete
  17. Your article reflects the issues people care about. The article provides timely information that reflects multi-dimensional views from multiple perspectives. I look forward to reading quality articles containing timely information from you. Thank you for sharing this great information.파워볼게임

    ReplyDelete
  18. It's hard not to read this post, interesting! Sharing is caring.온라인바둑이
    ‮‬

    ReplyDelete
  19. This is highly informatics, crisp and clear. I think that everything has been described in systematic manner.카지노사이트

    ReplyDelete
  20. I'm amazed, I have to admit. Rarely do I encounter a blog that?s equally educative and amusing, and without
    a doubt, you've hit the nail on the head. The issue is something not enough men and
    women are speaking intelligently about. I'm very happy I came across this in my
    hunt for something concerning this.
    부산오피

    ReplyDelete
  21. Remarkable! Its truly remarkable piece of writing, I have got much clear
    idea about from this paragraph. 온라인경마

    ReplyDelete
  22. It's hard not to read this post, interesting! Sharing is caring!카지노사이트프로

    ReplyDelete
  23. What's up, after reading this remarkable piece
    of writing i am also glad to share my know-how here with mates. 스포츠토토


    ReplyDelete
  24. Hurrah, that's what I was looking for, what a material!

    existing here at this website, thanks admin of this web page.

    Feel free to surf to my webpage - ポーカー



    ReplyDelete
  25. You have fantastic composing abilities. I'm so delighted to locate the exact same subject I have actually been trying to find. Everybody is providing me a great deal of praises today. You're fantastic. As an author, you're so trendy due to the fact that you're such a fantastic author. Why do not you come as well as see my blog post? 바카라사이트

    ReplyDelete
  26. Everyone has something in their mind, so am I. Let’s share out thoughts and hang out sometimes. Reach me at my site. 일본야동

    Also feel free to visit may webpage check this link
    한국야동

    ReplyDelete
  27. Beautiful. However those who suffered losses and may not feel quite so charitable are no less deserving of our good wishes at this time 한국야동닷컴

    Also feel free to visit may webpage check this link
    국산야동

    ReplyDelete
  28. Awesome dispatch! I am indeed getting apt to over this info, is truly neighborly my buddy. Likewise fantastic blog here among many of the costly info you acquire. Reserve up the beneficial process you are doing here. 국산야동

    Also feel free to visit may webpage check this link
    야설

    ReplyDelete
  29. The restriction on clerics shedding blood in Dungeons & Dragons likely stems from a combination of factors, including attempts to differentiate them from more martial classes and perhaps a nod to certain religious taboos about violence. However, historical accuracy wasn't necessarily the primary concern in early fantasy gaming. As for the best chocolate in riyadh, you can't go wrong with the luxurious delights from Patchi or the rich indulgence of Bateel chocolates.

    ReplyDelete
  30. The intricacies of role-playing games like D&D offer valuable lessons and insights. Similarly, when crafting your ideal living or working space, trust the expertise of reputable fitout companies in Dubai to ensure every detail aligns seamlessly with your vision.

    ReplyDelete

  31. "Understanding the intricacies of role-playing games like D&D adds depth to gaming experiences. Just like crafting the perfect villa, attention to detail makes all the difference vvilla renovation Dubai."

    ReplyDelete
  32. Fly Ash Blends: versatile mixtures incorporating fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion, tailored for various applications like concrete production, soil stabilization, and waste remediation. Offering economic and environmental benefits, these blends contribute to sustainable construction practices.

    ReplyDelete

  33. Historically, the question of whether clerics could shed blood is complex and context-dependent. Bishop Odo, a key figure in the Norman Conquest, illustrates the blurred lines between spiritual and martial roles in medieval times. Meanwhile, for exquisiteExecutive catering services in Monahans Texas elevate your events with culinary excellence and professional service – a recipe for success.

    ReplyDelete
  34. The contemplation of clerics shedding blood, exemplified by Bishop Odo, delves into complex historical narratives. While pondering such questions, treat yourself to the comfort of home-delivered chocolate – الشوكولاته تسليم المنزل A sweet pause to reflect on the intricate tapestry of history and the simple joys that bring solace.

    ReplyDelete
  35. The question of whether clerics could shed blood, exemplified by Bishop Odo, delves into the complexities of historical and moral narratives. Similarly, for your vehicles in Ottawa, ensure they receive royal treatment with Mobile Car Wash services in Ottawa, showcasing a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. A thought-provoking historical reflection coupled with a contemporary touch of care for your everyday chariots.

    ReplyDelete
  36. "Contemplating the historical question of whether clerics could shed blood, Bishop Odo's example adds an intriguing layer to religious discourse. As we delve into the past, modern structures like cantilever gates edmonton showcase how technology and design evolve to ensure security and functionality in diverse settings, bridging the gap between tradition and progress."

    ReplyDelete
  37. Contemplating whether clerics could shed blood, as exemplified by Bishop Odo, adds a layer of historical intrigue. In a contemporary context, vapor mitigation Texas represents a modern solution, ensuring environmental safety and harmony, bridging the gap between the historical and the present.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Exploring the intersection of machine learning and clinical practice unveils exciting opportunities for enhancing patient care and medical research. Meanwhile, in Dubai, fuel your intellectual endeavors with a stimulating cup of coffee brewed from the coffee beans dubaisourced globally. A synergistic blend of innovation and indulgence shaping the future of healthcare.

    ReplyDelete