Homestuck’s troll romance system can be quite complex and fascinating. Trolls have a unique way of experiencing romance, which is divided into four quadrants. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the Homestuck quadrants.
Part 1: Understanding Quadrants
Step 1: Know the Basics
The term “Quadrants” in Homestuck refers to the types of romantic relationships experienced by trolls, the non-human species in the webcomic. Troll romance is divided into four different types, which are represented as a square split horizontally and vertically.
Step 2: Examine the Horizontal Division: Redrom and Blackrom
- Redrom (Red Romance): These relationships are based on positive emotions, akin to love and friendship in humans.
- Blackrom (Black Romance): These relationships are based on negative emotions, such as rivalry and competition.
Step 3: Examine the Vertical Division: Concupiscent and Conciliatory
- Concupiscent Quadrants: These are more romantic and play a role in reproduction.
- Conciliatory Quadrants: These are more platonic relationships that serve other roles.
Step 4: Understand the Flushed Quadrant: Matespritship
- Matespritship (<3): This redrom concupiscent relationship is similar to human romantic love and is essential for reproduction. Matesprits feel pity for each other and aim to help each other.
Step 5: Understand the Pale Quadrant: Moirailegiance
- Moirailegiance (<>): This redrom conciliatory relationship is akin to a deep, platonic soulmate bond. Moirails pacify and support each other, helping to keep more violent trolls in check.
Step 6: Understand the Caliginous Quadrant: Kismesistude
- Kismesistude (<3<): This blackrom concupiscent relationship is based on a rivalry filled with mutual antagonism and respect. It’s a competitive relationship where each troll tries to outdo the other.
Step 7: Understand the Ashen Quadrant: Auspisticism
- Auspisticism (c8<): This blackrom conciliatory relationship involves a third party mediating between two trolls to prevent their rivalry from becoming destructive. This role is often filled to maintain peace and prevent infidelities.
Part 2: Understanding Transgressions
Step 1: Look Back
Transgressions in troll society refer to partners switching between quadrants, which can lead to complex emotional dynamics and potential infidelities.
Step 2: Comprehend Concupiscent Transgressions
- Transgressions commonly occur between matespritship and kismesistude due to the intense emotions involved.
- Rarely, all parties involved in such transgressions may enter a balanced, multi-person relationship known as a Quadrangle.
Step 3: Comprehend Redrom Transgressions
- Transgressions can also happen between matespritship and moirailegiance. These changes in feelings can lead to either reinforced platonic bonds or romantic shifts.
Step 4: Comprehend Blackrom Transgressions
- Transgressions between kismesistude and auspisticism are common. If an auspistice fails to mediate effectively, they might be forced out, and the rivals could become kismesis.
By understanding these concepts, you can better grasp the intricate and unique romantic dynamics of the trolls in Homestuck.
