Summary
In the re-imaginedBattlestar Galactica,Gaius Baltar, portrayed by the talented James Callis, unwittingly becomes the focal point of a monotheistic movement that challenges the traditional polytheistic beliefs of the Twelve Colonies. Termed the Cult of Baltar or Baltarism, the genesis of this cult can be traced back to the shadowed confines of the Galactica. Here, Baltar’s own existential journey intersected with the fervent beliefs of a growing enclave of disciples.
The initial tremors of this worship manifested themselves before Baltar’s trial, as a handful of devoted individuals reached out to him. However, it was not until the tumultuous events of the trial itself that the full force of the Cult of Baltar became apparent. And as it did, it set a new course for Baltar’s storyline inBattlestar Galactica.
The Indoctrination of Gaius Baltar
In the third season ofBattlestar Galactica,Baltar faces judgment for his accedental involvement in a devastating Cylon attack. The first indications of the Cult of Baltar become apparent just before Gaius Baltar’s trial. Five devotees, including a prominent figure named Jeanne, visit Baltar in the brig. Over 30 other cult members wrote letters to him, expressing their unwavering support. As the trial unfolds, Jeanne and two other women, representing the cult, attend as spectators. Their presence doesn’t go unnoticed, asLaura Roslin’s gazefalls upon them during Lee Adama’s testimony. Jeanne, the de facto leader of the cult, returns her look with resolute devotion.
Baltar’s “not guilty” verdict elicits triumphant applause from the cult members. They transport him away to what they describe as his “new life.” This journey takes an unexpected turn when the Galactica experiences a power outage following an FTL jump to the Ionian Nebula, leaving Baltar in the hands of the cult. In their sanctuary, located on deck eight, section fourteen, the cult erects a makeshift shrine adorned with a star and a photograph of Baltar during his presidency.
Initially, Baltar’s reaction to the cult is one of fear and loathing. However, Virtual Six, his digital companion, persuades him toembrace his newfound roleas the cult’s leader. This transformation is driven by a miraculous event – the complete recovery of Jeanne’s young son, Derrick, from viral encephalitis, following Baltar’s fervent prayer. At this point, Baltar unwittingly takes on the mantle of a messianic figure, changing the course of the cult’s beliefs forever.
Baltarism Practices
The bedrock of Baltarism initially seemed nebulous, with its adherents viewing Gaius Baltar as the harbinger ofthe one true God. At its inception, the Cult of Baltar’s belief system remains vague, centered on their messianic view of Baltar. However, as time progresses, Baltar begins to shape a more defined belief system, putting his followers in direct conflict with the polytheistic faiths of the Twelve Colonies. This transformation is largely orchestrated by Virtual Six, the digital embodiment of Baltar’s conscience, who seems to hold the reins of this cult.
Baltar teaches his followers that there is a force in the universe that loves them, which he refers to as “God.” He encourages them to seek the “singular spark” residing in the soul of every living being by introspection. Embracing their flaws and learning to love themselves becomes a core tenet of their faith, as Baltar reasons that one cannot love others without self-love. Influenced by Tory Foster’s words, Baltar goes a step further, proclaiming that all cult members are “perfect.”
As Baltar’s sermons are broadcast throughout theGalactica and likely the entire Fleet, the cult begins adopting formal symbols, most notably a bird-like emblem. This symbol, representing a “gull,” stands for “grace, unity, life, and love.” It finds its place on shrouds, draperies, and even serves as an emblem during Baltar’s attack on a mainstream temple.
The evolution of Baltarism challenges the established religious norms within the Fleet. The clash of polytheism and monotheism provides afascinating backdrop to the series, sparking intriguing theological debates and casting a new light on Baltar’s character.
The Legacy of the Cult of Baltar
The Cult of Baltar challenges the complexity of belief in the face of existential crisis. It not only provided a glimpse into the malleability of faith, but also underscored the blurred lines between mortal fallibility and divine agency. While the series itself unfolds within the realm of science fiction, the Cult of Baltar’s narrative arc remains rooted in the human psyche. It explores the interplay between belief, identity, and the desire for transcendence.
Gaius Baltar grappled with his own role in this unexpected theocracy. Through him, viewers were compelled to confront the multifacetednature of human spiritualityand the relentless pursuit of meaning in a universe fraught with uncertainty. Baltar transforms from a man filled with fear and loathing to the charismatic leader of a monotheistic sect. His journey is a testament toBattlestar Galactica’s ability to explore the complexities of human nature, even in the face of apocalyptic challenges.
