Ash is amazing. The only thing I can think of to compare it to in terms of depth and density of worldbuilding, intellectual sprezzatura, and grittiness is Gene Wolfe's Torturer series. I am convinced that in a non-sexist society, Gentle would be at least as famous and praised as Wolfe.

I think I liked more than loved the ending, and didn't completely understand how it happened, but I did feel satisfied. IIRC, the academics have more to do with the overall plot than is immediately apparent.

When I graduate and have more time, I will re-read these. I have been wanting to do so for ages, but want to have time to sink into them.