European History – 1000 to 1500

study guides for every class

that actually explain what's on your next test

Assassin's Creed

from class:

European History – 1000 to 1500

Definition

Assassin's Creed is a popular video game franchise that centers around the historical conflict between two factions: the Assassins and the Templars. The series blends real historical events, figures, and locations from different eras, particularly the Middle Ages, into its narrative, creating an immersive experience that highlights the complexity of morality, freedom, and control in society.

congrats on reading the definition of Assassin's Creed. now let's actually learn it.

ok, let's learn stuff

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Assassin's Creed franchise began in 2007 and has since expanded to include multiple sequels, spin-offs, novels, and films, demonstrating its cultural impact.
  2. Each game typically features a unique historical setting, such as the Italian Renaissance or Ancient Egypt, highlighting the richness of the Middle Ages and how they are perceived today.
  3. The series emphasizes themes of freedom versus control, portraying Assassins as champions of free will against the Templars' desire for order.
  4. Players often engage in parkour-like movement and stealth gameplay, which reflects the assassins' skills and adds to the immersive experience of historical exploration.
  5. The franchise has sparked discussions about the representation of history in popular culture, challenging players to consider the complexities of past events and their relevance today.

Review Questions

  • How does Assassin's Creed portray the conflict between Assassins and Templars in relation to historical accuracy?
    • Assassin's Creed intricately weaves real historical events into its narrative framework, showcasing the conflict between Assassins and Templars as a metaphor for broader societal themes like freedom versus control. While engaging with actual figures and events from history, it also takes creative liberties to enhance storytelling. This blend invites players to reflect on how these fictionalized conflicts relate to historical truths and their implications on modern perceptions of power.
  • Discuss how the use of historical settings in Assassin's Creed impacts player engagement and understanding of the Middle Ages.
    • The incorporation of meticulously recreated historical settings in Assassin's Creed significantly enhances player engagement by allowing them to explore pivotal moments in history. This interactive experience not only immerses players in environments like medieval cities but also fosters a deeper understanding of cultural and societal dynamics of the Middle Ages. By interacting with these settings, players can grasp complex issues such as political strife and social hierarchies that defined this era.
  • Evaluate the cultural implications of how Assassin's Creed represents the Middle Ages and its influence on modern perceptions of history.
    • Assassin's Creed shapes modern perceptions of the Middle Ages by framing it through a lens that highlights moral ambiguity and individual agency. The portrayal of Assassins as champions of free will against authoritarian control challenges traditional narratives of history as merely a series of events. By engaging with this representation, audiences are encouraged to question established historical interpretations and consider how these themes resonate within contemporary societal issues, thus broadening discussions around history's relevance today.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Glossary
Guides