The Frye Twins: Fact vs. Fiction in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate
No, the Frye twins, Jacob and Evie Frye, are not real historical figures. They are fictional characters created by Ubisoft for the video game Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, set in Victorian London of 1868. While the game draws heavily on real historical events and figures, the Frye twins and their personal story are products of creative storytelling within the established Assassin’s Creed universe.
Unraveling the Truth: Historical Context & Fictional Narrative
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate masterfully blends historical accuracy with fictional narratives. The game places players in a meticulously recreated London undergoing the Second Industrial Revolution, encountering real historical figures like Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, and Alexander Graham Bell. The presence of these figures and the accurate depiction of the era’s social and technological advancements create a convincing backdrop.
However, Jacob and Evie Frye are not among the historical individuals featured in the game. Their roles as Assassins fighting against Templar control in London’s criminal underworld, while engaging and exciting, are purely fictional. They serve as compelling protagonists to explore the game’s themes of justice, social change, and the ongoing conflict between the Assassins and Templars.
The game cleverly integrates real-world historical events with its fictional story. For example, the Frye twins’ struggle against Crawford Starrick, a powerful Templar Grand Master, takes place against the backdrop of London’s growing industrialization and social inequalities. The game touches upon issues like child labor, poverty, and organized crime, using the fictional Assassin-Templar conflict as a lens to explore these historical realities.
Evie Frye is inspired by a real-life gang member of “The Forty Elephants Gang,” and her name was Alice Diamond.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the World of the Frye Twins
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Frye twins and their role in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate:
What exactly is the Assassin’s Creed universe about?
The Assassin’s Creed universe revolves around a centuries-long conflict between two secret organizations: the Assassins, who fight for free will and peace, and the Templars, who seek order through control. GamesLearningSociety.org explores the rich lore in the Assassin’s Creed universe. Throughout history, these two groups have clashed, shaping events from ancient times to the modern era. The series often blends historical settings with sci-fi elements, exploring genetic memory and ancient artifacts.
What was the Frye twins’ purpose in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate?
The Frye twins were tasked with liberating London from Templar control. Jacob, the impulsive and brash twin, focused on disrupting Templar operations through direct action and building a gang, The Rooks. Evie, the more strategic and stealthy twin, sought out Pieces of Eden, powerful artifacts that could tip the balance of power in the conflict. Together, they aimed to restore justice and righteousness to the city.
How did the Frye twins differ from each other?
Jacob was characterized by his impulsiveness, charisma, and preference for direct confrontation. He excelled at combat and rallying people to his cause. Evie, on the other hand, was more cautious, analytical, and adept at stealth. She prioritized research, planning, and using her skills to uncover hidden truths. Their contrasting personalities often led to conflict but also complemented each other effectively.
What is a Piece of Eden, and why was Evie searching for it?
Pieces of Eden are ancient, technologically advanced artifacts left behind by a precursor race known as the Isu. These artifacts possess incredible powers and are highly sought after by both Assassins and Templars. Evie was searching for a particular Piece of Eden, the Shroud, which possessed the ability to heal and potentially grant immortality. She sought to prevent it from falling into the hands of the Templars, who would likely misuse its power.
Who was Crawford Starrick, and what was his role in the game?
Crawford Starrick was the Templar Grand Master in London and the main antagonist of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate. He controlled London’s criminal underworld and sought to exploit the city’s resources for his own gain. The Frye twins were tasked with dismantling his operation and eliminating him to restore balance and freedom to London. Starrick is one of the few main antagonists in the Assassin’s Creed series who is not based on a historical figure.
Did Jacob and Evie eliminate Starrick?
Yes, they successfully assassinated Starrick and prevented him from misusing the Shroud.
What happened to the Frye twins after the events of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate?
After the events of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, Evie married Henry Green, a fellow Assassin, and moved with him to India to help build the Brotherhood there. Jacob remained in London to continue rebuilding the Assassin Brotherhood in England.
Who did Jacob Frye marry?
Jacob Frye married Clara Frye, formerly known as Clara O’Dea, and paternal grandmother of Lydia Frye.
Are Jacob and Evie Frye still alive in the modern Assassin’s Creed timeline?
According to the information in the original article, The pair were both killed by a mysterious assassin, but their deaths had been long planned for.
How is World War I connected to the Frye family?
The Assassin’s Creed Syndicate DLC, “Jack the Ripper”, explores the aftermath of the main game and features Jacob Frye confronting the infamous serial killer. Furthermore, during World War I, a descendant of Jacob Frye, Lydia Frye, appears in a set of side missions. Lydia, trained by Jacob, continues the Assassin legacy and fights against Templar influence during the war.
What is the significance of the blood wiping ritual performed by Assassins?
The act of wiping a target’s blood is a symbolic gesture representing the completion of a mission and the confirmation of a kill. This ritual, exemplified by Altair in the first Assassin’s Creed game using a feather, serves as a proof of execution and a sign of dedication to the Assassin Brotherhood.
How old were the Frye twins during the events of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate?
Since they were born in 1847 and the game is set in 1868, the Frye twins were approximately 21 years old during the events of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate.
Were there any real-life gangs similar to the Rooks in Victorian London?
Yes, Victorian London was rife with street gangs, although none were known as “The Rooks.” Real-life gangs like the Peaky Blinders (although more active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries) and various other criminal organizations controlled territories and engaged in violent conflicts. The game draws inspiration from the historical reality of gang activity in London.
What real historical figures are featured in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate?
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate includes several prominent historical figures, such as Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, Charles Darwin, Alexander Graham Bell, and Florence Nightingale. These figures interact with the Frye twins and contribute to the game’s historical immersion.
What aspects of Victorian London are accurately depicted in the game?
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate accurately portrays various aspects of Victorian London, including its architecture, industrial landscape, social classes, and technological advancements. The game captures the city’s atmosphere, from its bustling streets and smoky factories to its grand palaces and impoverished slums. It also touches upon issues like child labor, poverty, and the rise of organized crime, reflecting the social realities of the era.