The Assassin's Creed franchise, known for its captivating blend of history and fiction, takes players on a thrilling journey through time. Yet, hidden beneath the cloak-and-dagger gameplay and immersive narratives lies a rich tapestry of real history. At its core, Assassin's Creed draws inspiration from the mysterious Assassins Order, or the Nizari Isma'ili, founded by Hassan-i Sabbah in 1090 AD. Today, we unravel the historical threads that weave through the game's intricate storyline, exploring the roots of the Assassin's Brotherhood and its clash with the Knights Templar.
The Birth of the Assassin's Order: Inspired by Alamut
The origins of Assassin's Creed can be traced back to a real historical figure and a book that was inspired by his actions. Hassan-i Sabbah, a charismatic and enigmatic leader, laid the foundation for the Assassins Order. In 1090 AD, he seized the fortress of Alamut, nestled high in the mountains of Persia (modern-day Iran). This fortress would become the epicenter of the Assassins' power and influence.
The Assassin's Creed game draws its name from the term "creed" or "code" followed by the Assassins, which reflects the strict moral and ethical guidelines they adhere to in their quest for justice and freedom. Players step into the shoes of various Assassin protagonists throughout the series, each following their unique interpretation of this creed.
The Age-Old Conflict: Assassins vs. Knights Templar
One of the most iconic elements of the Assassin's Creed series is the ongoing conflict between the Assassins and the Knights Templar. In the games, the Templars are portrayed as a secretive and powerful organization, often pursuing control and dominance at any cost. But how much of this is based on historical fact?
The real history surrounding the Assassins and the Knights Templar reveals that the two groups may not have been direct adversaries. While they did exist during the same historical period, there's limited evidence of direct conflict between them. The Templars primarily operated in the Holy Land during the Crusades, while the Assassins were based in Persia.
However, the game artfully weaves together these separate historical threads, creating a compelling narrative where the Assassins and Templars vie for control over ancient artifacts with immense power, such as the Pieces of Eden.
Assassination Targets: Fiction Meets Reality
Another fascinating aspect of Assassin's Creed is how it intertwines fictional characters with real historical figures. The assassination targets in the game often have real-life counterparts, offering players a unique perspective on history. The game's creators meticulously researched and integrated historical elements, making each mission an opportunity to learn about the past.
For example, in Assassin's Creed II, players confront the notorious figure Rodrigo Borgia, who later became Pope Alexander VI. His real-life actions, including corruption and nepotism, were infamous, and the game explores his role as a Templar Grand Master.
In Assassin's Creed III, the protagonist, Connor, crosses paths with George Washington, who is depicted as a complex character with both admirable and morally ambiguous traits. These encounters with historical figures add depth and authenticity to the game's narrative.
In Conclusion: Unraveling the Real History of Assassin's Creed
While Assassin's Creed may blend historical fact with fictional elements, it's clear that the game is deeply rooted in the history of the Assassins Order and the historical backdrop of the Middle Ages. The captivating storyline, the conflict between Assassins and Templars, and the inclusion of real historical figures all contribute to making the series a thrilling exploration of the past. As fans continue to immerse themselves in this gaming world, they'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of history that underpins the Assassin's Creed franchise.
Leave a Reply