Lecture Notes: The Mis-anthropology of the Monsters in the Conan Universe

Introduction

• Misanthropy & Anthropology: In the Conan universe, misanthropy refers to hating humanity, while anthropology is the study of humanity over time.
• Monsters in Conan: Most monsters in Conan display extreme misanthropy, leading to the creation of a new term: "Mis-anthropology."
• Purpose: The lecture explores unique monsters in Conan, thanks supporters, and invites listeners to a journey from hell to outer space.

Understanding Hell Entities

• Devils from Outer Dark: Generally refers to things that want to kill humanity, often linked to Cthulhu Mythos entities.
• Elder Knight Beings: Pre-date the banishment of demons, often demon gods.
• Marvel Lore: Respectful to Howard’s work, separate from the superhero mainstream.
• Role in Tabletop Gaming: Customizable for unique lore and gaming experiences.

Classification of Demons in Conan

• Imps: Result from starvation in hellish areas, undergo "imp-ification."
• Minor Demons: Succubus, Incubus, etc., low in intellect, easily tamed.
• Complexity of Imps: Underutilized yet adaptable, could be empowered by specific demigods.
• Demons’ Instinctual Behavior: Example of Bat Demons migrating instinctively.

Minor Demons and Greater Demons

• Minor Demons Examples: Succubi, Incubi, Rock Noses.
• Greater Demons: Reside in hell realms, intelligent, often seek power via service.
• Hierarchy & Empowerment: Greater demons empower minor ones; examples include blood defilers and serpent men.

Master Devils and Heralds

• Master Devils: Half-biome, half-demon, often linked to Jebel Sag.
• Heralds: Half-human, half-demon, result from birth, ritual, or curse.
• Examples: Werewolves, fire-breathing cultists.

Fiends

• Evolutionary Adaptations: Fiends are greater or minor demons adapting over time; examples from various Conan games.
• Significant Timeframe: Evolution into a fiend can take 1-3,000 years.

Demon Gods

• Origin: Existed before man, now often banished.
• Interaction with Humanity: Often include cultural imprinting, like serpent men and set.
• Demonologists: Likely to become imps or greater demons post-death.

Mis-anthropology Theory

• Chart and Disclaimer: Theory is based on over a century of lore.
• Example: Race from Howard’s “God in the Bowl” represents humanity’s myth of perfect ancestors.

The Giant Kings

• Role: Known as perfect ancestors to humanity, involved in human-Giant interactions.
• Conflict with Humans: Resulted from overpopulation and neglect.
• Cultural Aspects: Advanced technology, complex societal structure.

The Serpent Men

• Background: Grandchildren of set, ancient enemies to humanity.
• Cultural Dilution: Over time, their culture became fragmented.
• Serpent Man City: Example of their high culture in Conan Exiles.

Deep Ones

• Creation and Purpose: Servants of cthulu, intended to replace humanity.
• Society: Underwater, communal, archaeologically focused.
• Cult and Rituals: Integrate humans via deep one cults.

Acheron Empire

• Historical Context: Ancient, demonic empire with mysterious origins.
• Cultural Degeneration: Result of dark sorcery and demon worship.
• Military Power: Highly advanced technological and sorcerer capabilities.

Conclusion

• Theories in Conan: The lecture touched on various theories, including the evolution and classification of demons and monsters in the Conan universe.
• Cultural and Societal Insights: Provided insights into the societal structures and cultural aspects of different demon and monster races.
• Role in Gaming: Highlighted the potential of these elements for customization in tabletop role-playing games.