Did Ezio Regret Being an Assassin?
The short answer? No, not definitively. While Ezio Auditore da Firenze undeniably carried the weight of his actions and experienced profound losses throughout his life as an Assassin, he never explicitly stated regret for choosing that path. He questioned it, he lamented the sacrifices it demanded, but ultimately, he embraced his role and the responsibilities that came with it, believing he was fighting for a greater good. It’s crucial to understand the nuance within his journey to truly grasp his feelings about his life’s calling.
The Burden of the Creed
Ezio’s entry into the Assassin Brotherhood wasn’t a conscious choice, but rather a forced response to the brutal murder of his father and brothers. Driven by vengeance, he initially lacked the philosophical grounding that typically characterized members of the Creed. His early actions, as the text highlights, were often fueled by anger and a desire for retribution.
The article mentions two specific instances. Firstly, the riot in Constantinople, initiated to destroy the “Great Chain.” While effective in its objective, it resulted in the deaths of civilians at the hands of the Janissaries. The question is: Why did Ezio not show any regret? He probably did feel regret but it wasn’t explicitly stated and the ends, to Ezio, justified the means. Secondly, the accidental bombing of a city in Cappadocia. These incidents, particularly early in his career, demonstrate the potential for collateral damage inherent in the Assassin’s fight.
However, as Ezio matured, he began to grapple with the moral complexities of the Creed. He started to understand that being an Assassin wasn’t just about killing Templars; it was about protecting freedom and fighting for the betterment of humanity. This realization is evident in his interactions with figures like Leonardo da Vinci and his growing understanding of the pieces of Eden.
Ezio’s arc is one of transformation. He evolves from a vengeful youth to a wise and respected Mentor. He carries the burden of leadership, the loss of loved ones, and the awareness that his actions have consequences, both intended and unintended. While he might not have explicitly regretted becoming an Assassin, he certainly felt the weight of the responsibility and the sacrifices it demanded.
A Life Beyond Assassination
Ultimately, Ezio did choose to leave the life of an Assassin. The article correctly points out that after the events of Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, he retired, married Sofia Sartor, and started a family. This decision to relinquish his role speaks volumes. It suggests a yearning for peace, for a life free from the constant threat of violence and the moral ambiguities of the Creed.
His final moments, spent watching a young man who reminded him of himself, suggest a profound understanding of the cyclical nature of violence and the need for future generations to strive for a better world. He died in peace, surrounded by his family, a testament to his ultimate desire for a life beyond the Assassin Brotherhood. His last words, though unrecorded, could probably have included some request for his family to never be like him.
In conclusion, while Ezio may not have regretted becoming an Assassin in the sense of wishing it had never happened, he certainly yearned for a life free from its burdens. His journey is a complex exploration of duty, sacrifice, and the enduring human desire for peace. It’s a testament to the thoughtful narrative design present in many video games, a topic often explored by organizations like the Games Learning Society who study the educational and societal impact of gaming. Learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ezio and His Life as an Assassin:
1. Was Ezio a reluctant assassin?
Yes, initially. He didn’t choose the life; it was thrust upon him after his family’s execution. His early motivations were primarily revenge-driven.
2. How many Assassin’s Creed games does Ezio appear in?
Ezio is the protagonist of Assassin’s Creed II, Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, and Assassin’s Creed: Revelations. He also appears in Assassin’s Creed II: Discovery and the short film Assassin’s Creed: Embers.
3. What was Ezio’s relationship with Leonardo da Vinci?
They were close friends and allies. Leonardo provided Ezio with valuable technological advancements and insight into the Pieces of Eden.
4. Did Ezio ever lose faith in the Assassin’s Creed?
Not entirely, but he did question its methods and purpose at times, especially as he matured and saw the consequences of his actions.
5. How did Ezio learn to become such a skilled assassin?
He was self-taught initially, honing his skills through experience and necessity. Later, he received training and guidance from other members of the Assassin Brotherhood.
6. What was the “Great Chain of Constantinople”?
It was a massive chain used to block access to the Golden Horn, Constantinople’s harbor. Destroying it was a strategic objective for Ezio.
7. Who was Sofia Sartor?
She was Ezio’s wife and the mother of his two children, Marcello and Flavia. She was a Venetian bookseller.
8. Did Ezio’s past as an assassin ever affect his family life?
Undoubtedly. The constant threat of danger and the secrecy required by his past cast a shadow over his family life.
9. What was Ezio’s greatest accomplishment as an assassin?
Arguably, it was his role in preventing the Templars from gaining control of the Pieces of Eden and safeguarding the future of the Assassin Brotherhood.
10. What are Pieces of Eden?
These are powerful artifacts from a precursor civilization, capable of controlling minds and manipulating reality. They are central to the conflict between the Assassins and Templars.
11. How does Ezio’s story compare to other Assassin protagonists?
Ezio’s story is considered by many to be the most compelling and well-developed in the franchise, due to its length, character development, and emotional depth.
12. What is Ezio’s famous catchphrase?
“Requiescat in pace,” Latin for “Rest in peace.” He says it after assassinating his targets.
13. Who betrayed Ezio’s family at the beginning of Assassin’s Creed II?
Uberto Alberti, the gonfaloniere of Florence, betrayed the Auditore family by conspiring with the Templars.
14. Why is Ezio considered the “coolest assassin” by some fans?
His charisma, wit, and the epic scope of his story resonate with players. He embodies the romantic ideal of the rogue hero fighting for justice.
15. What is the significance of Ezio’s death scene?
It highlights his desire for a peaceful life and his acceptance of mortality. It also serves as a poignant ending to a legendary character’s journey.