A rigid caste system where color defines your destiny
In short: In Pierce Brown's dystopian future, the Solar System is governed by the Society—a strict hierarchy of 14 Colors. From the elite, physically superior Golds to the low-status Red laborers, every individual's role and physical traits are predetermined by their birth, leaving little room for social mobility or dissent.
In the 2014 science fiction novel Red Rising, the author Pierce Brown depicts a future where the Solar System is ruled by the Society. This regime maintains order through a rigid social hierarchy consisting of 14 distinct Colors. Each Color dictates an individual's specialized role and even their physical characteristics. At the top of this hierarchy are the Golds, who are described as mentally and physically superior to the other castes. This structure is overseen by the Sovereign, who resides on the Moon.
The lowest tier of this system is occupied by the Reds, who serve as the Society's primary laborers. On Mars, Red mining colonies work in underground conditions to harvest Helium-3 fuel. This toil is motivated by the promise that the resource will eventually allow for the terraforming of the planet, enabling humanity to inhabit its inhospitable surface. Nevertheless, Darrow finds out that Mars underwent terraforming hundreds of years ago, while the Reds remain unaware to maintain their passive obedience. The ruling Golds maintain control through various Proctors who monitor the different Houses. These overseers often manipulate events to ensure specific outcomes.
Brown has stated that the world-building was inspired by the disenfranchisement of the working classes and the plight of 19th-century Irish immigrants. The narrative follows Darrow, a 16-year-old Red miner, as he undergoes a black market 'carving' to physically transform into a Gold. This transformation allows him to infiltrate the elite ranks and join the Sons of Ares, a rebel group dedicated to overturning the Society's oppressive hierarchy. During his training, Darrow is sent to the Institute to compete in a brutal, medieval-style simulation. This challenge requires students to conquer various Houses to earn their status.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Red Rising
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-red-rising.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Traditions & customs · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
