Why William Wallace Is Portrayed as a Peasant in Braveheart

One of the frequent questions surrounding the iconic movie Braveheart is why the historical figure William Wallace, who was a nobleman, is portrayed as a peasant in the film. This article delves into the reasoning behind this portrayal, exploring its narrative purposes, the underdog theme it reinforces, and the cinematic elements that make it compelling.

The Historical Context

In reality, William Wallace was the younger son of Sir Malcolm Wallace, a Scottish nobleman. His upbringing was traditional, and he had access to military training through mercenary work. However, the film's portrayal of Wallace as a peasant serves a significant narrative function by emphasizing his status as an ordinary man rising up against oppression.

Narrative Purposes

Symbol of the Common Man

The film presents Wallace as a peasant to highlight his role as a champion of the common people of Scotland. By portraying him as a man who, through personal struggle and hardship, rises up against tyranny, the film underscores the themes of freedom, justice, and the struggle for identity. Braveheart aims to connect viewers with Wallace's journey, making his fight for Scottish independence more relatable and inspiring.

Personal Motivation

Wallace's transformation from a peasant to a military leader and then a leader of rebellion is a powerful narrative arc. It tells the story of his personal journey, motivated by a desire to avenge the injustices done to his family and people. This arc is crucial to the film's emotional impact, showing viewers that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things.

Dramatic Contrast

The stark contrast between Wallace's noble lineage and his peasant status creates a dramatic tension that enhances the character's journey. It highlights the disparity between the established social order and the common people's fight for freedom. This contrast is a key element in making the story more engaging and emotionally resonant.

The Cinematic Choices

While the film makes liberal use of historical liberties, these choices serve to create a more compelling and inspiring narrative. By depicting Wallace as a peasant, the film taps into the well-worn cultural trope of the "underdog." This makes the character more relatable to the average viewer, who can see themselves in Wallace's shoes as he fights against seemingly insurmountable odds.

The "Underdog" Theme

The idea of a "David" battling against "Goliath" is a timeless and effective narrative device. In Braveheart, Wallace serves as this "David," facing off against the oppressive forces of Edward I, the English king. This framing makes the conflict more relatable and the victory more satisfying, evoking feelings of hope, confidence, and pride in the audience.

Anachronistic Elements for Storytelling

The film also includes several anachronistic elements for the sake of storytelling and cinematic appeal. For instance, Wallace is often depicted in the traditional Scots Highland kilt, despite the movie's setting being more than 1000 years before these garments were commonly worn. This anachronism, along with the presence of blue war paint and a mob of screaming Scots, adds to the film's visual impact, making the fight scenes more visually exciting and engaging.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the portrayal of William Wallace as a peasant in Braveheart serves multiple narrative and aesthetic purposes. It reinforces the underdog theme, makes the protagonist more relatable, and enhances the dramatic impact of the film. While it deviates from historical accuracy, these choices serve to create a compelling and inspiring story that resonates with audiences on a deeply emotional level.

Thus, the film's portrayal of William Wallace as a peasant is a deliberate and strategic choice that enriches the narrative and caters to the audience's desire for inspiration and empowerment.