Have you ever wondered who is the real Braveheart? History tells us about a hero, but is he who we think he is? Join me on this journey into the past and discover the truth behind the legendary William Wallace.
The Origin of Braveheart
William Wallace, known to many through the 1995 movie “Braveheart,” was a Scottish warrior who fought for Scottish independence in the 13th century. His bravery and skill in battle earned him the respect and admiration of his followers, but his story is much deeper and more complex than what the movies have shown us. So we have to ask ourselves, who is the real Braveheart?
Braveheart 1995 vs. Reality
The real Braveheart differs significantly from the cinematic portrayal of William Wallace in the movie Braveheart. Here are some of the key differences:
- Origin and Education:
William Wallace was a commoner with some education. He was not an illiterate peasant as depicted in the movie.
Robert Bruce, not Wallace, became a central figure in the struggle for Scottish independence. Bruce led the Scots at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, where they won a crucial victory against the English.
- Appearance and Clothing:
Unlike Mel Gibson’s portrayal in Braveheart, the real William Wallace did not wear a kilt. Instead, he was a knight wearing face armor.
- Braveheart Legend:
Robert Bruce, not Wallace, is known as the real Braveheart. After the Battle of Bannockburn, Bruce led Scotland to independence and crowned himself king as Robert I.
On his deathbed, Bruce made Sir James Douglas swear an oath to take his heart to the Holy Land. Douglas fulfilled this oath, carrying Bruce’s heart in a lead container and chain. In battle, Douglas exclaimed, “Onward, braveheart, I will follow you or die!”.
In short, although Braveheart captured the essence of the struggle for Scottish independence, the film took artistic license and focused on Wallace rather than Bruce, who played a crucial role in the actual story.
Where is the body of William Wallace?
After his capture and execution in 1305, Wallace’s body was dismembered and his parts sent to different regions of the United Kingdom as a warning to other rebels. Although his exact grave is unknown, his legacy lives on in monuments and stories that continue to inspire generations.
What happened after William Wallace’s death? Who is the real Braveheart?
Wallace’s death was not in vain; his sacrifice fanned the flame of independence in Scotland. In 1314, under the leadership of Robert the Bruce, the Scots won the Battle of Bannockburn, a crucial turning point in the Scottish War of Independence.
The Warrior’s Legacy
Although the movie “Braveheart” gives us a glimpse into his life, it’s important to remember that the reality of Wallace is even more fascinating.
Have you been surprised by what you’ve learned about the real Braveheart? History is full of heroes whose real lives are often more intriguing than the legends we know. Continue to explore and discover the true stories behind the characters you thought you knew.
