** Training as a Physician** Class by Yesi
This is based in the Gorean world, which is based on the books by John Norman.
Class by Yesi Glas
Several of the speakers at the recent Fair do not wish their talks to be used by others as group training/lessons. If you wish to do so, please contact the speakers direct.
Unlike many other castes, the Physician caste allows both men and women to be active members.
In some roleplay environments today, the caste contains a large number of female physicians, though ideally a balance of genders strengthens the caste overall.
Family and Caste Continuation
In the books, caste continuation through family was considered important.
Traditionally:
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At age 15, a free woman receives two bracelets worn on the left wrist.
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Each bracelet represents the expectation of two children.
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After the birth of each child, one bracelet is removed.
In the novels, a female apprentice often did not become a full physician until she had two children, as women were expected to help continue the caste before dedicating themselves fully to caste work.
However, cities and roleplay communities interpret these traditions differently, and many do not enforce such requirements.
In northern regions of Gor (according to the books), the caste system does not exist, so these traditions would not apply.
Duties of a Physician
The central duty of a physician is:
To improve the quality and quantity of life for the people they serve.
This includes caring for:
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Free citizens
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Slaves
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Travelers
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The general health of the community
Physicians serve anyone who requires healing, regardless of status.
Despite belonging to a high caste, physicians were not necessarily wealthy, unless they worked in specialized roles such as:
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Personal physician to an Ubar
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Physician attached to a slave house
Important Areas of Work
Typical physician responsibilities include:
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General medical care
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Research into medicines and serums
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Treating injuries and illness
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Maintaining public health
In some cities, an important economic duty was maintaining healthy slaves, since slave trade was a major part of commerce. This included:
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Slave health examinations
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Medical inspections
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Knowledge of substances such as slave wine
Training Physicians in Roleplay
Training is essential for maintaining the quality and credibility of the caste in roleplay.
Even people with real-life medical knowledge often require time to learn the Gorean lore and style of roleplay. Understanding the difference between:
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What exists in the books
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What has developed through roleplay traditions
is an important part of training.
Mentorship has historically played a large role. Apprentices would work closely with experienced physicians, learning through:
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Observation
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Discussion
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Practical roleplay situations
Structured Training Systems
To help maintain standards, some physician communities developed structured training programs.
These typically include:
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Skill sets outlining necessary knowledge
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Apprentice manuals
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Knowledge tests or quizzes
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Practical roleplay experience
The goal was to ensure that apprentices graduated with a solid foundation of knowledge, though these manuals were usually meant as guidelines rather than strict requirements.
Cities may use such materials when evaluating physicians or selecting caste leaders.
Schools vs Mentorship
Today there are many medical schools and academies appearing in roleplay communities.
Opinions differ on the best training method.
Some prefer:
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One-to-one mentorship
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Learning directly through roleplay
Others support a mixed approach, similar to real-world medical training:
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Lectures and theory
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Practical clinical roleplay
Both can be valuable if done properly.
The Importance of Practical Roleplay
Apprentices should not remain passive observers.
Instead, they should:
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Participate in medical roleplay
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Assist in treatments
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Practice procedures
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Learn through experience
Hands-on roleplay is one of the most effective ways to develop skill and confidence.
Adapting Training for a New Generation
Roleplay environments change over time.
Training systems may need periodic review to ensure they remain:
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Relevant
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Accessible
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Engaging
Some modern players may feel hesitant to participate for fear of making mistakes. Encouraging experimentation, creativity, and fun can help restore the energy and community spirit that once defined the caste.
Community and Legacy
Training is not only about knowledge. It also builds:
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Friendships
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Mentorship bonds
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A shared legacy of the caste
Maintaining this sense of community is just as important as maintaining technical knowledge.
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