"Thunsba was monotheistic. The theology was subtle and complex, the ritual emotionally satisfying, the commandments flexible enough to accommodate ordinary fleshly weaknesses. Nobody doubted the essential truth of the religion; but its Temple was another matter." (pp. 263-264)
We want to be told more about the subtle and complex theology which, however, is not necessary for the story. The abbot is a good being who:
wants Galactic technology to improve the lives of peasants;
wants to read Galactic books on astronomy;
cooperates with Wing Alak.
Other extra-solar monotheisms in Poul Anderson's works:
In The Technic History
Martin Schuster subverts Ivanhoan monotheism by introducing the Kabbala.
The Ythrian New Faith is incompatible with Christianity.
The monotheism of the Merseian Roidhunate refers to "the God." Thus, the Eriau equivalent of "deus," "god" etc has not become a name.
In "The Word to Space"
A Jesuit subverts an extra-solar theocracy but was its theology monotheistic?
2 comments:
Well, that monotheism is rudimentary -- Earthly monotheisms have had much more experience.
Kaor, Paul!
Exactly, what Stirling said. I remembered again that religion seen in Thunsa, and Catholic Christianity is far older, far more deeply learned, and even more subtle than what was seen in Thunsa.
Ad astra! Sean
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