Cleric

Lore & Background

The cleric character class first appeared in the original edition of Dungeons & Dragons. In the original edition, the class is described as gaining 'some of the advantages from both of the other two classes (Fighting-Men and Magic-Users) in that they have the use of magic armor and all non-edged magic weapons (no arrows!), as well as a number of their own spells. In addition, they are able to use more of the magical items than are the Fighting-Men.' The cleric character class began as a simulation of vampire hunting clergy, such as seen in B grade 'Hammer Horror' films, specifically created to oppose a vampire player character called 'Sir Fang'. 'The cleric's power to repel the undead had its roots in Dracula, which coined the popular term 'undead' and established a vampire hunter's ability to turn away vampires by the presentation of a crucifix (a holy symbol)'. Gary Gygax added the restriction on weapon types, influenced by a popular interpretation of the Bayeux Tapestry where Odo of Bayeux is depicted with a mace in hand, though this is sometimes conflated with Archbishop Turpin of Chanson de Roland fame, who actually wields both spear and a sword called 'Almace'. When the paladin character class was introduced in Supplement I – Greyhawk (1975), the potential for confusion between the roles of the two classes arose. The clearest way to understand the distinction is to envision the archetypes as relating primarily to Archbishop Turpin and Roland as models.

In Their Own Story

The temple bells tolled as the plague swept through the village, but Elara stood firm before the altar. Her silver mace glowed with a soft, golden light as she whispered prayers to her goddess of healing. One by one, the sick were brought forth, and with every touch of her hands, the fever broke and color returned to pale cheeks. She did not fight for glory or gold; she fought because the faithful looked to her when hope seemed lost.

Reader's Guide

Clerics are defined by their Wisdom score, which dictates the potency of their spells and their ability to perceive divine truths. Unlike other casters, they wear heavy armor and wield shields, allowing them to act as durable front-line defenders while maintaining a spellbook-free list of prepared magic. Their unique feature, Channel Divinity, allows them to perform extraordinary feats once or twice per rest, such as turning undead or demanding the attention of a deity. This class excels in campaigns requiring sustained support, offering powerful healing, buffs, and area-of-effect control spells that can turn the tide of battle. Choosing a Domain is crucial early on, as it grants specific weapon proficiencies and additional spells tailored to the cleric's role. Whether acting as a battlefield tank with the War domain or a mystical guardian with the Life domain, clerics provide essential utility that keeps the party alive.

Did You Know?

• The cleric is the only class to be included in every edition of Dungeons & Dragons without a name change.
• The cleric's power to repel undead had its roots in Dracula, which coined the popular term 'undead' and established a vampire hunter's ability to turn away vampires by the presentation of a crucifix (a holy symbol).
• Gary Gygax added the restriction on weapon types, influenced by a popular interpretation of the Bayeux Tapestry where Odo of Bayeux is depicted with a mace in hand.
• In the original edition, the cleric is described as gaining 'some of the advantages from both of the other two classes (Fighting-Men and Magic-Users) in that they have the use of magic armor and all non-edged magic weapons (no arrows!), as well as a number of their own spells.'
• The cleric character class began as a simulation of vampire hunting clergy, such as seen in B grade 'Hammer Horror' films, specifically created to oppose a vampire player character called 'Sir Fang'.