In the world of Warcraft, the question of whether Worgen can be Paladins is an interesting one. Worgen, being the cursed form of the Gilnean people, have a complex relationship with the Light and its use in combat and healing abilities. While there is a Gilnean base in an Orc mission of Warcraft 3 capable of spawning a Paladin hero, it is important to consider the lore and reasons behind the limitations on Worgen Paladins.
Firstly, it is worth noting that the Worgen curse itself poses significant challenges when it comes to the use of the Light. The curse is derived from the ancient Druidic magic of the Scythe of Elune, and it has caused a deep rift between the Worgen and the Light. The Light is a powerful force of divine energy that is often associated with righteousness, purity, and order. It is typically channeled by those who are devout and have a strong connection to its principles.
However, the Worgen curse is inherently chaotic and corruptive, making it difficult for those afflicted by it to fully embrace the teachings and disciplines required to become a Paladin. The curse’s influence can disrupt the connection to the Light, making it nearly impossible for Worgen to harness its power in a controlled and consistent manner.
Furthermore, the Worgen curse itself is a manifestation of the primal nature of the wolf, which clashes with the more disciplined and structured nature of the Paladin class. Paladins are known for their unwavering devotion to the Light and their commitment to upholding justice and righteousness. The Worgen’s bestial instincts and struggle for control make it challenging for them to fully embody the ideals and principles of a Paladin.
It is also important to consider the cultural and societal aspects of being a Paladin. In the lore, Paladins are often associated with specific races or factions that have a long-standing tradition and training in the ways of the Light. The Alliance, for example, has a strong Paladin presence with races like Humans, Dwarves, and Draenei. These races have established orders and institutions dedicated to training Paladins, passing down their knowledge and teachings from generation to generation.
While the Gilneans have a history of being part of the Alliance, their isolation and self-imposed exile in Gilneas during the events of Cataclysm disrupted their connection to the broader Alliance and its institutions. This separation likely limited their ability to train and develop Paladins within their ranks. As a result, the availability of a Paladin hero in a Warcraft 3 mission may be more of a gameplay mechanic rather than a reflection of the lore and cultural limitations of the Worgen.
The lore and background of the Worgen curse, combined with their struggle to control their primal nature, present significant challenges for them to become Paladins. While there may be instances of Worgen Paladins in gameplay mechanics, it is important to consider the broader lore and limitations surrounding their ability to fully embrace the teachings and disciplines required to be a Paladin.