William Wallace

Nationalistic sentiment looks to the past to legitimate the present and secure the future; it re-makes history, appropriating mythic legends as it forges a national identity. Each time an ancient story is told, the myths are reinforced; each time today is reminded of yesterday, the origins are re-traced. Braveheart re-writes Scottish history, willing the world a legacy, a timeless legend of mythic appeal. The film performs its historiographic function every time it is seen; every time anyone anywhere invokes the name of William Wallace; every time the thought of Scotland's greatest hero inspires honor, bravery, or freedom.

Prefatory Note

William Wallace