In the context of the Gor books, treason is defined as the ultimate betrayal of one's allegiance to their Home Stone or Ubarate. It is one of the gravest crimes a free citizen can commit, as it directly undermines the foundation of the city's identity, stability, and survival.
Key Actions Constituting Treason
Treason in Gor is often treated as the ultimate form of dishonor and typically involves actions that give aid and comfort to a city's enemies:Betraying the Home Stone: The act of betraying or assisting in the theft or destruction of a city's Home Stone, the sacred symbol of its independence and sovereignty, is the paramount act of treason. The text often links treason to being "without a Home Stone," which means losing all legal status and protection.
Aiding Enemies/Usurpers: Providing military intelligence, assisting in a siege, or collaborating with invaders, such as the Kurii or a rival city's Ubar, is immediately considered treasonous.
Rebellion or Mutiny: Conspiring against the legitimate, ruling Ubar or the established High Council, especially during a time of crisis, is an act of treason (or sedition, which is closely related).
Violation of Oaths: Treason involves violating the sworn oaths of loyalty made to the Home Stone, the Ubar, or the city itself.
Consequences
The penalty for treason is exceptionally severe, reflecting the magnitude of the offense against the city-state:Social Ruin: The traitor is typically disowned by their family and caste and stripped of their legal standing, becoming an outlaw or fugitive with no protection.
Punishment: The punishment is often death, carried out publicly via methods such as impalement or other forms of torture, serving as a brutal political deterrent to the populace. The ultimate humiliation is to have the traitor's shame publicly recorded and remembered.
