The Mismatch Between Fantasy and Historical Reality: A Study in Cultural Perception

There is a prevalent argument in critiques of modern fantasy, particularly medieval-themed movies, games, and folklore, that these representations often reflect contemporary American society more accurately than historical medieval Europe. While many might see this as an issue of cultural appropriation, it is important to distinguish these portrayals from actual historical facts. Fantasy, indeed, often draws references from the real world but does not necessarily aim to replace or replace them with contemporary elements.

Myth or Reality? Unpacking the Argument

The critique that medieval fantasy is a reflection of contemporary American society emerges from the observation that such works often include elements of modern sensibilities, such as social justice and progressive values, in a fantasy setting. However, this observation does not necessarily equate to cultural appropriation. Cultural appropriation occurs when elements of a culture are taken by members of another culture, often inappropriately or without proper understanding or respect. Fantasy, on the other hand, is a creative genre that draws references from various cultures and periods for inspiration.

Historical Context and Cultural Insensitivity

Let us examine the specific case of King MacBeth, a pivotal character in Shakespeare's tragedy. Historically, King MacBeth was a Scottish king who reigned from around 1040 to 1057. He did not gain the throne by murdering an elderly nobleman in his sleep but through legitimate means such as familial ties and political maneuvering. Moreover, he was known for a relatively peaceful reign, a far cry from the maniacal and violent character often portrayed in modern adaptations. The idea of witches and supernatural elements associated with the historical MacBeth were vastly exaggerated in Shakespeare's play, an artifact of the time's superstitions and not reflective of the king's actual beliefs or practices.

Entertainment as Escapism, Not Education

The entertainment industry is primarily focused on providing escapist entertainment rather than educational material. It is a common mistake to expect entertainment to serve as a primary source of education or historical accuracy. Books, films, video games, and other forms of media often mix factual elements with imagination and creativity. This blend is what makes them enjoyable and engaging for audiences. Historians and academics have the responsibility to ensure the historical accuracy of their work, but the goal of popular entertainment is to captivate and entertain.

Conclusion: The Nature of Fantasy and Cultural Appropriation

In conclusion, the mismatch between medieval fantasy and historical reality does not indicate cultural appropriation. Fantasy is a genre that takes references from the real world but modifies and reshapes them to create a new, imaginative world. The inclusion of contemporary American societal values in fantasy is a testament to the multiculturalism and the diverse inspirations that such works can draw from. It does not imply that medieval fantasy is attempting to replace or insult historical cultures, but rather to provide a fresh, imaginative perspective.