Edward Kenway: From Pirate to Assassin – A Deep Dive

Yes, Edward Kenway does indeed become an Assassin. While he begins his journey in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag as a self-serving pirate, driven by personal gain and oblivious to the centuries-old conflict between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order, the events of the game and the relationships he forges ultimately lead him to embrace the Assassin cause. This transformation is a gradual one, culminating in his formal induction into the Brotherhood towards the end of the game.

Edward’s Transformation: A Pirate’s Path to Redemption

The Early Days: A Life of Piracy and Ambition

Initially, Edward is motivated by greed and a desire for wealth. He stumbles upon the Assassin-Templar conflict entirely by accident, killing a rogue Assassin and assuming his identity in the hopes of profiting from a meeting with Templars. This sets him on a path of intrigue and danger, but his loyalty lies solely with himself and his crew.

The Catalyst for Change: Loss and Revelation

Several key events contribute to Edward’s eventual change of heart. The deaths of close friends, such as Blackbeard and Mary Read, force him to confront the consequences of his actions and the destructive nature of his pursuit of wealth. He begins to understand the importance of ideals and the value of fighting for something greater than himself. He is also exposed to the core tenets of the Assassin’s Creed, such as defending freedom and free will.

Embracing the Creed: A Late Bloomer’s Acceptance

It isn’t until Sequence 11 of Black Flag that Edward officially joins the Assassins. This marks a significant turning point in his character arc. He renounces his previous selfish ambitions and dedicates himself to the Brotherhood’s cause. He becomes a skilled and dedicated Assassin, using his piratical skills and combat prowess to fight against Templar influence.

A Legacy Forged: From Pirate to Assassin Master

After the events of Black Flag, Edward matures into a wise and respected leader within the Assassin Brotherhood. He continues to fight for freedom and justice, eventually settling down in London with his family. His legacy as a former pirate who became a staunch defender of freedom makes him a unique and compelling figure in the Assassin’s Creed universe. Even though he dies relatively young, his teachings have a profound impact on his son Haytham, who becomes a Templar, and his grandson Connor, who becomes an Assassin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Edward Kenway

Here are some frequently asked questions about Edward Kenway and his role in the Assassin’s Creed universe:

1. When does Edward officially become an Assassin? It takes until Sequence 11 of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, out of a total of 13 sequences, for Edward to officially become an Assassin.

2. Was Edward a good assassin? Edward is a skilled seaman, strategist, and fighter. While sometimes brash, he’s considered a formidable Assassin due to his experience, wisdom, and proficiency with both pistols and blades.

3. How did Edward acquire his Hidden Blades? Unlike most Assassins, Edward didn’t earn his hidden blades through training. He stole them from a rogue Assassin he defeated early in the game.

4. Who killed Edward Kenway? Edward was killed in 1735 by mercenaries hired by Reginald Birch, a Templar, who sought to steal Edward’s journal.

5. How many people did Edward Kenway kill? He has an estimated 26 kills, easily dwarfing his grandson Connor in terms of kills.

6. What was Edward Kenway’s greatest weakness? Edward’s greed was his biggest weakness, making him vulnerable to bribery and manipulation.

7. How old was Edward Kenway when he died? Edward died at the age of 42.

8. Is Edward Kenway an Assassin or Templar? Edward was neither at first, but eventually became an Assassin after the events of Black Flag. He started as a pirate and privateer, drawn into the Assassin-Templar conflict by chance.

9. Who does Edward Kenway love? Edward has romantic relationships with several characters, including his wife Caroline Scott and his close friend Mary Read.

10. Is Edward Kenway Connor’s father or grandfather? Edward Kenway is Connor Kenway’s grandfather.

11. Is Edward Kenway alive in Assassin’s Creed: Rogue? No, Edward is not alive in Assassin’s Creed: Rogue. His death is a significant event in the game’s backstory.

12. Who is stronger, Connor or Edward Kenway? While both are skilled fighters, Connor Kenway is generally considered stronger due to his extensive training from a young age, and also by his raw strength from fighting wild animals.

13. Why wasn’t Haytham Kenway raised to be an Assassin? After Edward’s death, Haytham was taken in by Reginald Birch and indoctrinated into the Templar Order. Edward never exposed his son to his work with the Assassins while he was alive.

14. Is Edward Kenway the weakest Assassin? No, Edward Kenway is not the weakest Assassin in the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Many consider Arno Dorian to be among the weakest.

15. What makes Edward Kenway such a compelling character? Edward’s journey from a selfish pirate to a dedicated Assassin is a compelling narrative of redemption and self-discovery. His complex personality, flawed nature, and ultimately his commitment to the Assassin cause make him a memorable and beloved character in the Assassin’s Creed universe.

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