Is Altaïr based on a real person?

Is Altaïr Based on a Real Person?

The character of Altaïr ibn-La’Ahad, the protagonist of the first Assassin’s Creed game, has been a subject of fascination for many gamers and historians alike. Is Altaïr based on a real person? To answer this question, let’s delve into the game’s storyline and historical background.

The Assassin’s Creed Series

Assassin’s Creed is an action-adventure game series developed by Ubisoft Montreal. The games are set in a historical setting, with the storyline revolving around the centuries-long conflict between the Assassins and the Templars. Altaïr, the protagonist of the first game, is a member of the Assassin Brotherhood, tasked with eliminating the Templar agents in the Holy Land.

The Historical Background

The Assassin’s Creed series draws inspiration from real-world historical events and figures. The game’s storyline is set in the 12th century, during the Crusades, and features characters like Richard the Lionheart and Saladin. Altaïr’s story is no exception. His character is loosely based on the life of a real historical figure, the Nizari Ismaili leader, Rashid ad-Din Sinan.

Rashid ad-Din Sinan: The Real-Life Altaïr

Rashid ad-Din Sinan was a powerful Nizari Ismaili leader who lived during the 12th and 13th centuries. He was the Grand Master of the Nizari Ismaili Order in Syria and Lebanon and is considered one of the most important figures in the history of the Ismaili sect. Sinan’s life and teachings have influenced many aspects of the Assassin’s Creed series, including Altaïr’s story.

Similarities Between Altaïr and Rashid ad-Din Sinan

While Altaïr is a fictional character, his story shares several similarities with Rashid ad-Din Sinan’s life. Both were born into a noble family, both were skilled warriors and leaders, and both played a significant role in shaping the course of their respective orders. Here are some key similarities:

• Family Background: Both Altaïr and Rashid ad-Din Sinan came from noble families. Altaïr was born into the Auditore family, while Sinan was born into a noble Kurdish family.
• Leadership Skills: Both Altaïr and Sinan were skilled leaders who were respected by their followers. Altaïr was the leader of the Assassin Brotherhood in Jerusalem, while Sinan was the Grand Master of the Nizari Ismaili Order.
• Military Skills: Both Altaïr and Sinan were skilled warriors and military leaders. Altaïr was a skilled swordsman and assassin, while Sinan was known for his military campaigns against the Crusaders.
• Spiritual Beliefs: Both Altaïr and Sinan were deeply devoted to their respective spiritual beliefs. Altaïr was a devout Assassin, while Sinan was a staunch Ismaili.

Differences Between Altaïr and Rashid ad-Din Sinan

While Altaïr is based on Rashid ad-Din Sinan’s life, there are significant differences between the two. Here are some key differences:

• Personality: Altaïr is a more brooding and introspective character than Rashid ad-Din Sinan. Sinan was known for his charisma and leadership skills, while Altaïr is more isolated and driven by his mission.
• Story: Altaïr’s story is fictional, while Rashid ad-Din Sinan’s life is historical. Altaïr’s story is set in the context of the Assassin-Templar conflict, while Sinan’s life was marked by his struggles against the Crusaders.
• Goals: Altaïr’s goal is to eliminate the Templar agents in Jerusalem, while Rashid ad-Din Sinan’s goal was to protect the Nizari Ismaili Order and its followers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Altaïr ibn-La’Ahad is a fictional character, his story is loosely based on the life of a real historical figure, Rashid ad-Din Sinan. The similarities between the two are striking, with both being skilled leaders, warriors, and devoted to their respective spiritual beliefs. However, there are significant differences between the two, with Altaïr’s story being fictional and set in the context of the Assassin-Templar conflict.