Magrats

Magrats is a fictional planet featured in the science fiction novel "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin. It is a world perpetually covered in ice and snow, with an extremely cold climate. The planet's inhabitants, the Gethenians, are androgynous humanoids who exhibit a sexual cycle that can shift between male and female. This unique biology is a central theme of the novel, exploring societal structures and gender roles.

The harsh environment of Magrats has shaped the Gethenian culture and technology. Their society is organized into various factions and nations, with a long history of political intrigue and warfare, often exacerbated by the challenging living conditions. The planet is characterized by vast, frozen plains, towering ice mountains, and a dim, often overcast sky. Travel and communication across Magrats are difficult due to the extreme weather, contributing to the isolation and distinctiveness of its different regions.

The novel follows the perspective of Genly Ai, an envoy from an interstellar federation, as he attempts to forge an alliance with the Gethenians. His interactions with the people of Magrats, particularly his relationship with the politician Estraven, highlight the cultural differences and the challenges of understanding beings with a fundamentally different biological and social framework. Magrats serves as a richly imagined setting that allows Le Guin to delve into complex themes of identity, prejudice, and the nature of humanity.