（外文电子版资料）Star Trek - Klingons - Masters Of War Destiny.pdf

Masters of War and Destiny The concept of the Klingon House is central to their society. It provides an identity, a sense of pride, a direction, and a place in history. A Klingon obtains self worth and personal honor from the House they serve. A warrior is nothing without his House—he has no one to sing his songs, no one to fight alongside, no place in society. Every deed he does reflects upon his House, every honor the House wins rebounds on him. Finally, the House serves a political function. Much as fiefdoms did on ancient Earth, each administers and defends their own territories. Without the power and organization of these great powers the Empire would fall into anarchy, dishonor, and weakness. Social Rankings Klingon society resembles that of Earth’s ancient, Northern European medieval culture. Those born into a ruling family—either a great or minor House—hold more status than that MASTERS OF WAR AND DESTINY 38 of a commoner. Unlike class systems on other worlds, however, the ability ment, as well as protection under Klingon law—they may to fight and a willingness to die provides the keys to upward mobility. The bring complaints against other Klingons, no matter their rank, commoner who proves himself capable in war could join a House’s army, and officials must have reason to enter a Klingon home. Their then through bravery and skill go on to found his own House—as General property may be seized, but with just cause and due process. Martok proves. A coward or scoundrel, however, will find himself tum- SuvwI’: Those who intend to walk the warrior’s path seek bling down the social ladder. The worst receive admission in the military of a particular House. This rank is discommendation—banishment by society.