Ancient-Warfare Historian Rates 10 More Battle Scenes In Movies And TV | How Real Is It? | Insider

Recent questions

• Were historical inaccuracies found in movie battle scenes?

  Roel Konijnendijk, an ancient history teacher at the University of Oxford, critiques scenes from movies and TV for historical accuracy. He points out instances like a French army using modern landing craft during the Barons' revolt, archers with unrealistic range and technique, and soldiers making tactical errors in facing horsemen. Defenses lacking historical accuracy and Viking raids attacking a defended town are also critiqued.

• What combat style involved curved swords and small shields?

  Swords and bucklers were used in a unique combat style with curved swords and small shields made of metal for both defense and offense. This style was depicted in certain movie scenes, showcasing a different approach to combat compared to traditional sword and shield techniques.

• How were northwest European fighters inaccurately portrayed?

  The portrayal of northwest European fighters as wild barbarians in certain movie scenes was deemed inaccurate by Roel Konijnendijk. He notes that these fighters were actually well-equipped, similar to Romans, rather than being depicted as wild and uncivilized.

• Were chariots in Britannia used for close combat?

  Chariots in Britannia were not used for close combat, as depicted in some movie scenes. Instead, they were utilized as missile platforms. Additionally, scythed chariots were considered ineffective as armored battering rams, contrary to their portrayal in certain films.

• What formations were effective and vulnerable in battle scenes?

  Protective circular formations were deemed effective in battle scenes, providing defense against attacks. However, single line formations were considered vulnerable and easily breached, highlighting the importance of strategic formations in historical battles.