The Real History behind Assassin's Creed

The Assassin’s Creed video game franchise, developed by Ubisoft, has captivated millions of players worldwide with its immersive blend of history and fantasy. The series transports players to various historical periods, allowing them to interact with iconic figures and events. But how much of Assassin’s Creed is rooted in actual history, and where does fiction take over? This article delves into the real-life inspirations behind the game’s lore, uncovering the truths and myths surrounding the world of assassins and Templars.

1. The Assassin Brotherhood: Fact and Fiction

At the heart of Assassin’s Creed is the secretive Brotherhood of Assassins, a group dedicated to preserving free will and fighting against the tyrannical Templars. While the game’s portrayal of the Brotherhood is largely fictional, it draws inspiration from a real historical group known as the Nizari Ismailis, also known as the Order of Assassins.

The Nizari Ismailis were a Shia Muslim sect that emerged in the 11th century in Persia (modern-day Iran). Led by Hassan-i Sabbah, the group became known for its strategic use of targeted killings against political and religious opponents, particularly during the Crusades. These assassinations were often carried out by highly trained operatives who were willing to sacrifice their lives for their cause, earning them a fearsome reputation.

The term “assassin” itself is believed to have originated from the Arabic word “hashashin,” which referred to the Nizari Ismailis. However, much of what we know about them comes from accounts written by their enemies, which may have exaggerated their practices and beliefs. While the Nizari Ismailis were certainly a formidable group, the depiction of them as shadowy, parkour-skilled killers, as seen in Assassin’s Creed, is a product of creative storytelling.

2. The Templar Order: Guardians or Villains?

Opposing the Assassins in the game is the Order of the Knights Templar, portrayed as a powerful and sinister organization seeking to control humanity. In reality, the Knights Templar were a medieval Christian military order founded in 1119 to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. They became one of the most wealthy and influential organizations of the Middle Ages, amassing vast land holdings and significant political power.

However, the Templars’ fortunes changed dramatically in the early 14th century. King Philip IV of France, heavily in debt to the Templars, orchestrated a campaign against them. On Friday, October 13, 1307 (a date that contributed to the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th), many Templar leaders were arrested, tortured, and eventually executed on charges of heresy and other crimes. The order was officially disbanded by Pope Clement V in 1312.

The notion of the Templars as a secret society manipulating world events from the shadows, as depicted in Assassin’s Creed, is more fiction than fact. However, their sudden fall from grace and the mysteries surrounding their hidden wealth and alleged secrets have fueled countless conspiracy theories over the centuries, making them ripe for the game’s narrative.

3. Historical Accuracy in Assassin’s Creed

One of the hallmarks of the Assassin’s Creed series is its meticulous attention to historical detail. The games feature richly detailed recreations of historical cities, such as Jerusalem, Venice, Florence, and Paris, along with accurate portrayals of architecture, clothing, and daily life. Players can interact with famous historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Cleopatra, and George Washington, all woven into the game’s fictional narrative.

However, while the settings and characters are based on real history, the storylines often take significant liberties. For example, while historical figures like the Borgia family in Assassin’s Creed II and Brotherhood were indeed powerful and corrupt, their connection to a secret war between Assassins and Templars is purely fictional.

The games also introduce elements of science fiction, such as the concept of genetic memory and the Animus, a device that allows characters to relive their ancestors’ lives. These elements are entirely fictional, serving as a narrative framework to explore different historical periods while maintaining a consistent storyline.

4. The Influence of Myth and Legend

Assassin’s Creed expertly blends historical fact with myth and legend, creating a rich tapestry that feels both familiar and fantastical. The use of legendary artifacts like the Apple of Eden, a powerful relic capable of controlling minds, is a prime example. While no such artifact exists in reality, the game draws on the allure of mythical objects like the Holy Grail or the Ark of the Covenant — symbols of ultimate power that have fascinated people for centuries.

Similarly, the game’s portrayal of secret societies battling for control of the world taps into age-old conspiracies that have persisted throughout history. The idea that powerful groups operate behind the scenes, influencing major events, is a common theme in literature, film, and now video games. Assassin’s Creed plays on these themes, creating a compelling narrative that blurs the lines between history and myth.

5. The Impact of Assassin’s Creed on Popular Culture

Since its debut in 2007, Assassin’s Creed has left a significant mark on popular culture, influencing how people perceive history. The games have introduced millions to historical periods and figures they might not have otherwise encountered, sparking interest in learning more about the past. However, this blending of fact and fiction also means that some players may come away with a skewed understanding of history.

The franchise’s impact extends beyond just entertainment; it has also been used as an educational tool. Some schools and universities have incorporated the games into their curricula to engage students with history in an interactive and immersive way. Ubisoft has even released versions of the games, like Assassin’s Creed: Discovery Tour, specifically designed for educational purposes, allowing players to explore historical settings without the combat and narrative elements.

Assassin’s Creed is a masterful blend of history, myth, and fantasy, offering players a unique and immersive experience that transports them to different eras and places. While the series takes significant creative liberties, it also draws from real historical events, figures, and groups, grounding its fantastical elements in a recognizable past.

As with any work of historical fiction, it’s important for players to distinguish between the game’s narrative and actual history. The real Assassins and Templars were complex and multifaceted, far removed from the black-and-white morality of the game’s world. By understanding the historical realities behind the game, players can appreciate the rich tapestry of Assassin’s Creed while also recognizing the power of storytelling in shaping our perception of history.