Inquisitors are among the most fascinating and complex characters in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, tasked with protecting the Imperium from its many enemies through methods that often blur the line between heroism and ruthlessness. If you’re eager to dive into the dark, secretive world of the Inquisition, there are several epic series that provide a compelling entry point.
1. Gregor Eisenhorn
Gregor Eisenhorn is one of the most iconic Inquisitors in Warhammer 40k lore. He starts as a strict puritan, dedicated to the purest forms of the Imperial creed, but over time, his methods become increasingly radical as he faces the horrific realities of the galaxy. His journey is marked by significant moral dilemmas, including his controversial decision to bind the daemon Cherubael to his service. Despite being labeled a rogue agent on two occasions, Eisenhorn’s loyalty to the Imperium ultimately prevails.
Key Works:
- Eisenhorn Trilogy: Xenos, Malleus, Hereticus by Dan Abnett
- Supplementary Stories: Missing in Action, Backcloth for a Crown Additional
- Collected Edition: Eisenhorn: The Omnibus
2. Gideon Ravenor
A former protégé of Eisenhorn, Gideon Ravenor is another compelling figure in the Inquisition. After a devastating attack leaves him confined to a suspensor chair, Ravenor continues his work as an Inquisitor, proving that his physical limitations do not hinder his sharp intellect and unyielding determination. His most notable pursuit is against the heretic Zygmunt Molotch, but his story takes a dramatic turn when he is forced to confront his old mentor, Eisenhorn.
Key Works:
- Ravenor Trilogy: Ravenor, Ravenor Returned, Ravenor Rogue by Dan Abnett
- Supplementary Stories: Playing Patience, Thorn Wishes Talon
- Collected Edition: Ravenor: The Omnibus
- Continued in: Pariah (part of the Bequin series)
3. Erasmus Crowl
Erasmus Crowl may not be as well-known as Eisenhorn or Ravenor, but his role in the Vaults of Terra series is crucial. Set on Terra itself, Crowl’s investigations uncover a vast conspiracy that threatens the very heart of the Imperium. Alongside his loyal Interrogator Spinoza and the formidable Adeptus Custodes, Crowl navigates the treacherous political landscape of the High Lords of Terra, rebel Inquisitors, and even the mysterious Drukhari.
Key Works:
- Vaults of Terra Trilogy: The Carrion Throne, The Hollow Mountain, The Dark City by Chris Wraight
Explore Further
For those inspired by these narratives, the Warhammer 40,000 universe offers countless more stories of Inquisitors and their retinues battling the forces of heresy, daemons, and xenos. The complexity of these characters, combined with the moral ambiguities they navigate, makes for some of the most engaging reading in the Warhammer 40k setting. You can also bring the drama of these tales to the tabletop with Codex: Imperial Agents, available at Warhammer stores.
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