The Vlandians: Inspiration from Medieval History
Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord’s Vlandians are one of the most iconic factions in the game, with their stunning armor, regal monarchs, and unrelenting martial prowess. But where did this inspiration come from? Let’s take a closer look at the historical roots that shaped the Vlandians.
Direct Inspiration: The Norman Conquest of England
The Vlandians draw heavily from the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century. The Normans, under the leadership of William the Conqueror, launched a successful invasion of England in 1066 and established a powerful dynasty. This period is marked by the rise of feudalism, the construction of Norman castles, and the spread of Latin culture. The Vlandians in Bannerlord borrow these historical elements, combining them with their own medieval flair to create a unique and engaging faction.
The People: Feudal Warriors and Aristocrats
In the game, the Vlandians are depicted as a feudal society, ruled by a powerful monarch and divided into vassals, knights, and peasantry. This social hierarchy is inspired by the actual feudal system, where a lord granted land to a vassal in exchange for military service and loyalty. The Vlandians’ emphasis on chivalry, honor, and loyalty reflects the values of the medieval knightly code.
Arms and Armor: Medieval Inspiration
The Vlandians’ appearance in the game is another area where history plays a significant role. Their iconic armor, swords, and shields are reminiscent of those worn by medieval knights during the 12th century. The distinctive Spangenhelm style helmet, adorned with wings and other ornate details, is particularly notable, as it reflects the lavish craftsmanship and cultural exchange seen during this period.
| Armor and Equipment | Inspiration from |
|---|---|
| Spangenhelm helmets | Ancient Germanic and Frankish designs |
| Chain mail and plate armor | Developments in European armor construction |
| Two-handed great swords | Sword types used during the Crusades and European wars |
The Environment: Castle Construction and Lands
The Vlandian settlements and lands in Bannerlord are modeled after those found in medieval Europe, with sprawling castle complexes, fortified towns, and bustling marketplaces. The environmental design is a nod to the Castle Building and Siege Warfare of medieval Europe, where fortresses were constructed to withstand attack and siege.
Battanian Clans and the Rise of the Monarchy
Another key element of the Vlandian identity is their relationship with the other factions in Bannerlord, particularly the Battanians. The Battanian Clans are drawn from medieval European tribal organizations, such as the Visigoths, Goths, and other Germanic tribes. These clans served as the backbone of European society, with their chieftains often rising to become powerful leaders.
In Bannerlord, the rise of the Vlandian monarchy is tied to their interactions with the Battanian Clans, reflecting the historical pattern of Pagan Europe and the Conversion to Christianity. This marks a significant departure from other factions, such as the Sturgians, which are inspired by the pagan cultures of Eastern Europe and the Slavic tribes.
Conclusion: A Franchise Built on Historical Accuracy
In conclusion, the Vlandians in Bannerlord draw heavily from the medieval world, combining elements of European history, architecture, culture, and society to create a unique and engaging faction. From the Norman Conquest to feudalism and castle construction, the historical roots of the Vlandians are rich and deep. As the franchise continues to evolve, it is clear that a deep commitment to historical accuracy will remain a hallmark of the Bannerlord series.
In the Next Article: We’ll Explore the Sturgians, drawing from medieval Eastern European and Slavic cultures.