Why did Altair lock himself?

Why Did Altair Lock Himself? An Insight into the Assassin’s Creed

Altair’s legacy has left a deep impact on the Assassin’s Creed series. As a highly skilled Assassin, Altair has faced numerous battles, conflicts, and ultimate sacrifices. Among his fascinating tales is the story behind why he locked himself, leaving the world to question the true meaning of heroism. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the circumstances that prompted Altair to lock himself and what this act speaks about his character.

Background of the Story: Altaïr’s History and Character

Before jumping into the details of the event, it’s crucial to understand Altair’s character and the context behind his actions. Born as Altaïr Ibn La-Ahad in 1165, Altair started his life as a thief, which ultimately led to his encounter with the Masyaf Assassin Brotherhood and their mentor, Al-Mualim. Under his guidance, Altair becomes an apprentice, learning skills, strategies, and, more importantly, the ideals of the Brotherhood.

Fast forward to 1190, and Altair would have completed his training by becoming a full-fledged Assassin, gaining the designation "The Father" by his fellow members. His path becomes clouded when ordered by Al-Mualim to murder an old friend and Mentor, Abdul Rahim. Altair’s morals begin to conflict with those of his Mentor, paving the way for a future full of rebellion and intrigue.

Why Did Altaïr Lock Himself? The Tragic Event:

By the time Al-Mualim’s fate becomes known, Altaïr was at his breaking point due to his actions and circumstances. It’s during his battle against his former Mentors and comrades that our hero faces an existential choice: join forces with other traitors, or commit suicide.

After a bitter battle against the Templar and Masyaf Knights, Altaïr ultimately chooses to protect the Apple of Eden and seal it within an underground tomb in Masyaf, marking the tragic moment of his self-immurement.

This act suggests a couple of things.

Points of Significance:

1. Moral Turbulence: The event in itself can be seen as an allegory for guilt and self-doubt, mirroring the anguish many face in their individual lives.
2. Personal Accountability: Although initially portrayed as a straightforward act, locking himself seems like an act of individual accountability. This could point to Altaïr genuinely recognizing his moral failures while in a position of conflict.

The circumstances surrounding Al-Mualim’s elimination may be debated, highlighting Ezio Auditore da Firenze’s version of the story further deepening the mystery for Assassin fans. Nonetheless, Altaïr’s predicament continues to captivate players.

Conclusion: What’s the Repercussion?

At first glance, Altaïr’s choice to entomb himself within the mysterious Library appears self-destructive, perhaps driven by profound shame and moral turmoil due to the lives he took earlier in the series. For players of Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, his imprisonment creates a symbolic space to contemplate the morality and value of his individual journey, culminating his legend within the AC community .

More Than Just an Action: Subsequent Reflection

The game provides various reflections on moral agency and self-awareness throughout. Altair and Al-Mualim (though dead, his will resonates in the characters he trained) serve test cases for internal struggle.

For the gamers and historians interested in in-depth discussions of the assassin creed saga.