Summary
In the originalBattlestar Galactica, there exists a character of intrigue and deception, known as Count Iblis. He stands as a sinister counterpart to the Prince of Darkness, a being who nearly ensnared the hearts and minds of the Fleet’s citizens in his web of deceit. However, Count Iblis was not always a harbinger of darkness. Once, he was a radiant Being of Light, who tragically succumbed to the allure of evil through the misuse of his extraordinary powers.
The Beings of Lightare a mysterious race, voyaging through the cosmos aboard the mysterious Ship of Lights. Though the primitive inhabitants of Kobol referred to them as angels, their true nature was far more complex. These ethereal beings played a pivotal role in nurturing the development of a civilization destined to become the illustrious Twelve Colonies.
As fate would have it, Count Iblis crossed paths with the crew of the Galactica, seeking to manipulate the fleet into electing him as their new President. In exchange for this position, he promised them safe passage to the coveted Earth. His enigmatic and alluring presence threatened to disrupt the balance of power within the fleet. In this arc lies the web of intrigue, power, and moral ambiguity that Count Iblis brought to the world ofBattlestar Galactica.
Galactica’s Encounter With Count Iblis
The encounter between Count Iblis and the crew of the Galactica begins with an expedition to an uncharted planet. Here, the wreckage of a colossal starship lays in ruins. The high radiation levels around the ship prevent the crew from further exploration. Nonetheless, a charismatic and enigmatic figure, Count Iblis, is discovered amidst the wreckage.
Count Iblis quickly captures the hearts and minds of the crew, promisingsafe passage to Earthand protection from the mysterious Lights that have been following the fleet. However, as his popularity soars, dark secrets and inconsistencies in his story begin to surface. He evades questions about his past, objects to medical examinations, and peculiarly disrupts nearby instruments.
The Quorum of Twelve becomes enthralled by Iblis when he offers to perform miracles. Among Iblis' offers, the Quorum chooses to have Count Baltar delivered to them, and to chart a course to Earth. However, these apparent miracles are soon unraveled. Apollo discovers scientificexplanations for the sudden plant growth, and Adama recalls the latent psychokinetic abilities of the Colonials.
The realization that Iblis may not be what he seems prompts Apollo and Starbuck to embark on a mission to uncover the truth. This decision sets the stage for a dramatic showdown on the planet, leading to a heartbreaking sacrifice as Apollo takes a fatal blow intended for Sheba. As the Lights reappear, Count Iblis vanishes, leaving a chilling promise of a future encounter.
On their way back to the Galactica, Starbuck, Sheba, and Apollo’s body are taken on board the Ship of Lights, where the truth about Count Iblis is revealed. He was once one of these angelic beings, cast out for leading a rebellion and trying to garner followers. His power is contingent on the free will of others. By attempting to kill Apollo, who had rejected him, he overstepped his boundaries, leading to his eventual punishment. Apollo is restored to life, and theColonials receive the coordinatesto Earth.
The Fall of Iblis
The comic series adaptation ofBattlestar Galacticaoffers a clear perspective on Count Iblis and his role in the downfall of the Cylon Empire not seen on the televised iteration. In this version, Count Iblis deceives the last organic Imperious Leader,leading to a cybernetic transformation. The enraged Imperious Leader seeks revenge, firing at Count Iblis as he disappears, leaving behind a cruel laugh. This act sets the tone for the future, as succeeding Imperious Leaders all speak like Count Iblis.
Iblis' actions ultimately lead to the destruction of the organic Cylon race, giving rise to the mechanical soldiers that threaten the universe. For this crime, he is arrested by the Seraphs, his angelic brethren, and subjected to a thousand yarens of amnesiac, non-corporeal existence. His essence remains trapped within the pain-racked lives of others, gaining brief remembrance of his identity only when their lives end in suffering and death.
The parallels between Count Iblis and religious figures, particularly Satan, are evident in thisBattlestar Galacticastoryline. His name, Iblis, is reminiscent of the primary devil in Islam, who:
“Has no power other than that which others freely give him over them.”
This concept aligns with Mormon beliefs about Satan. Moreover, the revelation that Iblis was cast out of the angelic beings for leading a rebellion mirrors the story of Lucifer, who was cast out of Heavenfor rebelling against God. Apollo’s reference to Iblis as the Prince of Darkness is a nod to the common title given to Satan. Count Iblis' transformation into a demonic form when shot by Starbuck further solidifies these religious connections, underlining the complexity of his character in the series.
In the role of Count Iblis, actor Patrick Macnee brought depth and charisma to a character thatcontinues to resonate with audiencesofBattlestar Galacticato this day. As fans revisit this iconic series and explore its multifaceted characters, Count Iblis' fall remains a compelling and thought-provoking aspect of the show’s rich tapestry.
