Historians Break Down the Accuracy of Ancient Warfare in Movies and TV Shows
Experts Evaluate Ancient and Medieval Battle Tactics on Screen
Ancient and medieval warfare has long fascinated filmmakers and audiences alike.
From the clash of swords in Gladiator to the storming of fortresses in Game of Thrones, epic battles are central to some of the most memorable scenes in entertainment.
Now, professional historians are weighing in on how well these portrayals reflect the realities of historical combat.
Roel Konijnendijk Analyses Tactics in Gladiator II and More
Roel Konijnendijk, a specialist in classical Greek warfare at Lincoln College, University of Oxford, reviews ancient warfare scenes with a critical eye.
In Gladiator II, starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington, Konijnendijk evaluates the naval battles and gladiatorial fights.
He notes that while some elements reflect historical Roman combat, other sequences are exaggerated for cinematic effect.
He also explains how armies would communicate complex maneuvers in House of the Dragon season two, such as signaling attacks using flags, horns, or runners.
Konijnendijk breaks down siege tactics shown in Prince of Persia and The Rings of Power season two, highlighting techniques like battering rams, scaling ladders, and tunneling beneath walls.
He also explores cavalry charges in films like Alexander and Kingdom of Heaven, discussing their strategic advantages and weaknesses in open-field warfare.
The use of medieval weapons in 300, Troy, and Braveheart receives scrutiny as well.
According to Konijnendijk, while the weaponry is often authentic, the fighting styles and outcomes are typically over-dramatized.
He further dissects battle tactics in Hercules (2014) and The Witcher, noting that fantasy elements often replace historical precision.
The historian also analyses the use of ancient arms in King Arthur (2004), Spartacus (1960), and Mulan (2020), comparing their on-screen presentation with historical records.
Konijnendijk comments on the gritty realism of warfare in The Northman, The Last Duel, and The Wheel of Time, applauding some for their attempt at historical fidelity.
Michael Fulton Examines Fortress Defense in Medieval Dramas
Michael Fulton, a medieval fortification expert and assistant professor at Western University in Ontario, studies how fortresses and siege warfare are portrayed in cinema.
He evaluates nine defense scenes from titles such as Outlaw King, Vikings S3E8, The Great Battle, and The Return of the King.
Fulton highlights how siege engines like trebuchets and ballistae are used realistically in some cases, while others, such as Monty Python and the Holy Grail, intentionally parody the genre.
His analysis of Ironclad, Robin Hood (2010), and Game of Thrones S2E9 provides insight into castle architecture, wall breaches, and the strategic use of terrain.
Michael Taylor Rates Roman Warfare and Military Formations
Michael Taylor, associate professor at the University at Albany, evaluates how ancient Rome is depicted in Hollywood.
He reviews the gladiator fights in Gladiator, naval warfare in Cleopatra, and the dangerous sport of chariot racing in Ben-Hur.
Taylor breaks down Roman formations and armor in Spartacus (1960), The Eagle, Netflix’s Barbarians, and HBO’s Rome.
He explains the historical basis behind the famed “testudo” formation and how it was employed to protect troops from missile attacks.
Evan Wilson Explores 18th-Century Naval Combat in Popular Media
Evan Wilson, an assistant professor at the U.S. Naval War College and expert in 18th-century naval warfare, reviews seafaring battles from Pirates of the Caribbean, Master and Commander, and Game of Thrones (2017).
He praises Master and Commander for its technical accuracy, noting the realistic use of wind, sails, and cannon fire.
Wilson also critiques the romanticized action in Pirates of the Caribbean, pointing out where it strays from historical tactics and ship design.
His insights help viewers understand the harsh realities of life at sea and the importance of naval strategy during the Age of Sail.
Why Historical Accuracy Matters in Film
These historians agree that while entertainment is the goal, accuracy enhances immersion and education.
Realistic portrayals of ancient and medieval warfare can provide audiences with a greater appreciation for the complexity of history.
By highlighting what films get right — and what they get wrong — experts like Konijnendijk, Fulton, Taylor, and Wilson help bridge the gap between drama and documented warfare.