Why Did King Edward Longshanks Kill Philip in Braveheart?

In the 1995 epic film Braveheart, King Edward Longshanks, played by Christopher Plummer, kills his son, Prince Edward's (played by Patrick McGoohan) friend and advisor, Philip, because of his sympathies with the Scottish cause and open criticism of Longshanks' brutal tactics. This act serves as a pivotal moment in the film, reflecting Longshanks' ruthless nature and the conflict between father and son.

Context and Motivation

King Edward Longshanks, also known as Edward I, was a formidable ruler in the 13th century. His affinity for war and his fierce determination to maintain his authority were defining characteristics. During the film, Longshanks is portrayed as a man who viewed criticism of his policies and actions as a direct threat to his rule. When Prince Edward's advisor Philip expressed sympathy for the Scottish cause and criticized Longshanks' harsh methods, these sentiments were seen as betrayal and a challenge to Longshanks' power.

Consequences and Symbolism

The brutal murder of Philip is not only a demonstration of Longshanks' ruthlessness but also a strategic move to eliminate dissent. By eliminating Philip, who was close to Prince Edward, Longshanks further alienated his son from his violent and authoritarian methods. This scene serves to highlight the growing rift between father and son, setting the stage for the broader conflict that unfolds throughout the film.

Historical Context and Fictional Interpretation

In reality, the historical records do not support the claim that King Edward I was responsible for tossing his son’s lover out of a window. The character of Philip in the film is a fictional creation that serves to support the narrative of Prince Edward's perceived weakness and homosexuality. The intensity of Longshanks' actions against Philip, such as tossing him from a window, is a dramatic performance in the film and does not align with known historical accounts. Patrick McGoohan, as Prince Edward, suggests in the film that one day he will be a king and should act like one. This dialogue reflects the essence of Longshanks' expectations for his son, emphasizing the importance of stance and control in leadership.

Analysis and Themes

The film portrays a complex relationship between a dutiful son and his father, where the son is expected to follow his father's ways but finds himself questioning them. The murder of Philip symbolizes the broader political tension and the personal struggles between loyalty and conscience. It highlights the themes of power, conflict, and the personal cost of maintaining authority.

Conclusion

In Braveheart, the murder of Philip by King Edward Longshanks is a pivotal moment that illustrates the film's themes of power, loyalty, and the personal cost of maintaining authority. While the film takes creative liberties for dramatic effect, it effectively captures the historical tension and personal conflicts of the time. Understanding these nuances provides a deeper insight into the characters and the broader narrative of the film.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did King Edward Longshanks kill Philip?

King Edward Longshanks killed Philip because Philip expressed sympathy for the Scottish cause and openly criticized Longshanks' brutal tactics against the Scots, which Longshanks viewed as a serious threat to his authority.

What is the significance of Philip’s death in the film?

Philip’s death symbolizes the conflict between a dutiful son and his father's authoritarian rule, and it sets the stage for the broader political and personal tensions in the film.

Is the historical accuracy of Philip's death in Braveheart?

The character of Philip in the film is fictional, and the scene where Longshanks tosses Philip from a window is a dramatic performance. There is no historical evidence to support the claim that King Edward I ever did such a thing.