Braveheart, the 1995 epic historical drama film, brought the story of William Wallace to the forefront of popular culture. Portrayed by Mel Gibson, Wallace is depicted as a valiant warrior fighting for Scotland’s freedom against English oppression. However, the film’s portrayal has left many wondering: How accurate was Braveheart? And just how big was the real William Wallace?
In this blog post, we will delve into the true story of William Wallace, separate fact from fiction, and explore fascinating aspects surrounding his life and legend. We’ll uncover the truth about his physical stature, his role in the Scottish fight for independence, his relationships, and the legacy he left behind. So sit back, relax, and join us on a journey to unravel the mysteries surrounding this revered Scottish hero.
Click here to discover the truth behind the infamous blue face paint and here for the real story behind Wallace’s sword. But first, let’s dive into the life of the enigmatic figure at the heart of it all: William Wallace.
How Big Was the Real William Wallace?
If you’ve ever seen the 1995 movie Braveheart, you might have a picture in your mind of William Wallace as a strapping, larger-than-life warrior who could defeat enemies with a single swing of his sword. But how accurate is this portrayal? Just how big was the real William Wallace?
Separating Fact from Fiction
Before we dive into the specifics of William Wallace’s size, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. While Braveheart might be an exhilarating film, it takes some creative liberties with the historical details. So, let’s put Mel Gibson aside for a moment and focus on the real man behind the legend.
The Challenge of Historical Accuracy
Determining the precise height and build of someone who lived over 700 years ago can be a challenge. Unfortunately, there are no surviving records that provide us with an exact measurement of William Wallace’s height. So, we have to rely on other methods to get a sense of his size.
A Comparison with the Average Medieval Man
To understand how big William Wallace might have been, it’s helpful to compare him to the average man of his time. According to historical records, the average height of a medieval man was around 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm). So, if Wallace was an average-sized man, we can assume he would have been around this height.
A Hero’s Proportions
However, it’s worth noting that William Wallace was not an average man. He was a renowned warrior and leader, which suggests that he may have had a more imposing physique. While we can’t say for certain, it’s possible that he stood taller and possessed a more formidable build than the average medieval man.
The Power of Determination
Ultimately, the size of William Wallace should not solely be measured in inches or centimeters. What truly set him apart was his unwavering determination, courage, and dedication to his cause. As the famous quote from Braveheart goes, “Every man dies, not every man really lives.” And William Wallace lived a life that continues to inspire us to this day.
In Summary
While the exact size of the real William Wallace remains a mystery, it’s safe to say that he was not just a physical giant, but a giant in spirit. His legacy as a Scottish hero has transcended generations and reminds us that true greatness comes from within. So, let’s remember William Wallace for the strength of his character and the impact he had on Scotland’s history, rather than spending too much time wondering about his height.
FAQ: How Big Was the Real William Wallace?
Welcome to our FAQ section on the real William Wallace! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer your burning questions about the legendary Scottish warrior. Get ready to uncover the truth behind the myths, dive into historical facts, and have a few laughs along the way. So, grab your claymore and let’s get started!
1. Why Did Braveheart Paint His Face Blue
Contrary to popular belief, William Wallace did not actually paint his face blue like Mel Gibson’s portrayal in the movie “Braveheart.” The blue face paint was a fictional addition for dramatic effect. So, if you were planning on sporting some blue war paint for your next cosplay event, you might want to reconsider.
2. How Much of Braveheart Was True
Ah, the age-old question! While “Braveheart” did capture the spirit of William Wallace’s fight for Scottish freedom, it took some creative liberties with historical accuracy. So, if you’re looking for a documentary, you might want to search elsewhere. But hey, it’s still a great movie to enjoy with a bucket of popcorn!
3. Did William Wallace of Scotland Have Any Children
While there are no definitive records of William Wallace having children, historical documents suggest that he did have a romantic relationship with a lady named Marion Braidfute. However, the details surrounding their relationship and any potential offspring remain somewhat ambiguous. The Wallace family tree might have a few hidden branches!
4. Did William Wallace Fight with Robert the Bruce
Absolutely! William Wallace and Robert the Bruce were both prominent figures in the Scottish Wars of Independence and fought together against English domination. They shared a common goal: to uphold Scottish independence. These two warriors made quite the dynamic duo on the battlefield!
5. Can You See William Wallace’s Sword
Unfortunately, you won’t find William Wallace’s sword on display in a museum. The real whereabouts of his renowned sword, often referred to as “the Wallace Sword,” are unknown. Perhaps it’s hidden away in some secret Scottish vault, waiting for the day it’s uncovered and displayed for all to see.
6. What Happened to William Wallace’s Sword
Legend has it that after William Wallace’s execution, his sword was taken by the English as a symbol of their triumph over the Scottish rebel. But fear not, brave history enthusiasts! Even without the physical sword, the legacy of William Wallace and his indomitable spirit lives on.
7. Was William Wallace a Viking
No, William Wallace was not a Viking. Vikings were seafaring warriors from Scandinavia, while Wallace was a proud Scotsman. So, although Vikings and Scots might have shared an appreciation for adventure, raiding, and epic facial hair, they were distinct groups with different backgrounds. Vikings didn’t have a monopoly on cool back then!
8. Is “Braveheart” a True Story
“Braveheart” is based on the life and exploits of William Wallace, but it’s important to remember that it is a Hollywood interpretation of historical events. While the movie captures the essence of Wallace’s struggle, it shouldn’t be taken as an entirely accurate depiction of his life. Think of it as a thrilling dramatization rather than a documentation.
9. Did Wallace Get the Princess Pregnant
Ah, the scandalous rumors! There is no historical evidence to suggest that William Wallace fathered a child with the Princess of Wales. These stories might have been embellished over time or simply sprouted from fertile imaginations. So, while it’s an intriguing tale, it remains firmly in the realm of myth and speculation.
10. Did They Wear Kilts in Braveheart
Although kilts have become synonymous with Scottish culture, they weren’t commonly worn by the Scottish warriors of William Wallace’s time. Kilts, as we know them today, actually emerged centuries later. So, if you’re hoping to recreate the Braveheart look, opt for some other fierce Scottish attire instead!
11. How Big Is a Scottish Claymore
The Scottish claymore, a fearsome two-handed sword, typically measured around 55 to 63 inches in length. These massive blades were wielded by warriors like William Wallace and were designed to deliver devastating blows on the battlefield. You know what they say: the bigger the sword, the mightier the warrior!
12. Why Is Braveheart So Inaccurate
“Braveheart” takes some liberties with historical accuracy for the sake of storytelling and cinematic appeal. It’s all about adding a touch of drama and excitement to the narrative. While it’s understandable for artistic reasons, it’s essential to consult reliable historical sources for a more precise understanding of William Wallace and his era.
13. Did William Wallace Actually Get the Princess Pregnant
We return to this juicy question once more, but alas, there is no concrete evidence to support the notion that William Wallace impregnated the Princess of Wales. The whispers of scandal and royal trysts add a dash of intrigue to the tale of the Scottish hero, but they remain as fictional as a dragon in a kilt.
14. Why Do They Yell McCulloch
In the movie “Braveheart,” the battle cry “McCulloch!” is part of William Wallace’s rousing speech to inspire his troops. However, in reality, there is no historical basis for this specific battle cry. So, the next time someone yells “McCulloch!” at you, feel free to respond with a puzzled look or a hearty laugh.
15. Did William Wallace Sleep with the Princess of Wales
Sorry to disappoint, but there is no credible evidence to support the claim that William Wallace engaged in romantic escapades with the Princess of Wales. As tempting as it is to indulge in a scandalous medieval love affair, this particular story seems to have been cooked up by imaginative minds rather than historical records.
16. What Did William Wallace Actually Look Like
Unfortunately, we don’t have any definitive portraits or photographs of William Wallace. Historical descriptions primarily focus on his imposing stature, with sources mentioning his height as around 6 feet 7 inches (200 cm) – a giant in his time! As for his hair and eye color, we can’t say for certain, but we can imagine him as a ruggedly handsome warrior.
17. How Big Was William Wallace’s Sword
The exact dimensions of William Wallace’s sword, the famed “Wallace Sword,” are unknown. However, it is believed to have been a formidable weapon, intended for two-handed use. Given Wallace’s towering height, it’s safe to say that his sword would have been proportionate to his size – an imposing weapon for an imposing warrior!
18. Was Mary Queen of Scots Related to Robert the Bruce
Yes, indeed! Mary Queen of Scots and Robert the Bruce shared a familial connection. Mary was the granddaughter of James IV of Scotland, who was the great-great-grandson of Robert the Bruce. So, there you have it – a royal family tree reaching across generations and entwining the lives of significant Scottish figures.
19. Did William Wallace Use a Claymore
Absolutely! The Scottish claymore was the weapon of choice for warriors like William Wallace. With its long, two-handed design, the claymore was a fearsome sword that allowed for powerful strikes in battle. So, imagine Wallace skillfully wielding his mighty claymore, striking fear into the hearts of his enemies.
20. What Did Vikings Call Scotland
The Vikings had a special name for Scotland – they called it “Skotland” or “Skotar.” Those raiding Norse explorers knew how to give everything a unique twist. So, when you hear someone mention “Skotland,” you know they’re talking about the land of lochs, bagpipes, and fierce warriors.
21. What Happened to the Real William Wallace
Following his capture by the English, William Wallace faced a brutal fate. In 1305, he was executed in London. But his sacrifice and indomitable spirit ignited a fire within the Scottish people, leading to their eventual victory in the Wars of Independence. Wallace may have been defeated, but his legacy endures as a symbol of Scottish courage and resistance.
22. Did William Wallace Wear a Kilt
As much as we’d like to envision William Wallace in a kilt, it’s an anachronistic image. Kilts, as we recognize them today, only came into fashion in the 16th century, well after Wallace’s time. So, while he sported a variety of daring battle gear, the kilt wasn’t part of his attire. The freedom of skirted fashion had to wait a little longer!
23. Did Robert Bruce Meet William Wallace
While Hollywood would have us believe in a fateful meeting between William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, there is no conclusive evidence to support such an encounter. The relationship between these two Scottish heroes is complex and remains a topic of historical debate. So, for now, their intersection on the battlefield remains more fiction than fact.
24. Who Was the Real William Wallace
The real William Wallace, born around 1270, was a formidable Scottish knight and leader who fought against English tyranny during the Scottish Wars of Independence. His unwavering determination and military prowess earned him a place in history as a symbol of Scottish resistance. Brave, charismatic, and larger than life – William Wallace remains an enduring figure in the annals of Scottish history.
Sources:
- BBC History: William Wallace – link
- Historic UK: William Wallace – link
- Scottish Clans: William Wallace – link
Disclaimer: This blog post is for entertainment and informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, please be aware that historical accounts may vary.
