Legends of the Shadow Warriors

October 2023
Smithsonian Magazine

Introduction

Dive into the shadowy world of the medieval Assassins, the real-life inspiration behind the hit video game Assassin's Creed. Smithsonian Magazine takes you on a thrilling journey back to Marco Polo's tales of a mysterious sect, led by the enigmatic old man of the mountain, who promised paradise for loyalty and bravery. From hashish-fueled courage to the silent blades of the fidais, explore the truth and myths of these legendary warriors. A tale of intrigue, power, and a fight for survival that reshaped history.

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Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

Unveiling the Shadows of History

Imagine diving into a video game and finding yourself in a world not just of thrilling adventures but also of deep historical roots. This is the case with the "Assassin's Creed" series, which draws inspiration from the real-life Nizari Ismailis, a group often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. Why does this matter to you? Beyond the allure of secret societies and legendary assassins, this topic serves as a fascinating gateway to understanding the complexities of religious, political, and cultural dynamics in the medieval Islamic world. It challenges us to think critically about how history is written, remembered, and reimagined. For you, exploring this topic could mean embarking on a journey that combines the thrill of a video game with the intrigue of unraveling historical truths, all while developing a deeper appreciation for the impact of historical narratives on our modern world.

Speak like a Scholar

Caliphate

A form of Islamic government led by a caliph, who is considered a political and religious successor to the prophet Muhammad.

Imamate

The office or jurisdiction of an imam, which in Shi'a Islam, refers to a leader who is seen as having divine guidance.

Nass

The designation of a successor by an imam, considered infallible and divinely inspired in Shi'a belief.

Fidais

Literally meaning "those who sacrifice themselves." In the context of the Nizaris, these were devoted members willing to carry out high-risk assassination missions.

Orientalists

Western scholars who study the cultures, languages, and societies of Asia. The term can carry a critical connotation regarding the perception and depiction of Eastern societies.

Polemics

Strong verbal or written attacks on someone or something. In historical contexts, these often involved religious or political disputes.

Independent Research Ideas

The evolution of secret societies

Investigate how secret societies like the Nizaris have influenced political and military strategies over centuries. This exploration could reveal the enduring allure and impact of such groups on global history.

Assassination as a political tool

Examine the use of assassination in historical and contemporary contexts, comparing the motivations, methods, and outcomes. This topic encourages a deep dive into the ethics and effectiveness of assassination.

Cultural misrepresentations

Explore how Eastern societies have been portrayed by Western historians and media, focusing on the consequences of these portrayals for cross-cultural understanding. This could lead to insights on the importance of perspective in historical narratives.

The role of religion in governance

Analyze how religious beliefs have shaped political structures and conflicts, using the Shiite-Sunni split as a case study. This topic offers a window into the complex interplay between faith and power.

Video games and historical education

Investigate the potential of video games like "Assassin's Creed" as tools for historical education. This could involve assessing the accuracy of these games and their impact on players' interest in and understanding of history.

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