Exploring the Historical Context of Skyrim’s Famous ‘Arrow to the Knee’ Quote

Kevin Hicks, a medieval expert and creator of the YouTube channel thehistorysquad, explains that his viewers often referenced the Skyrim meme whenever he published videos about medieval wounds. Intrigued by the persistent popularity of the quote, Hicks decided to investigate the significance of an arrow to the knee injury in medieval times.

Drawing inspiration from his own viewers and his newfound interest in The Elder Scrolls, Hicks delved into the topic with a serious approach. He notes that Skyrim is heavily influenced by the Dark Ages and the medieval period, making historical context a valuable resource for understanding the injury.

The Significance of an Arrow to the Knee Injury in Medieval Times

In his YouTube video, Hicks provides a detailed analysis of the arrow-to-the-knee injury, complete with some gory details that may not be suitable for the squeamish. Using a plastic model replicating the kneecap and ligaments, he demonstrates the potential consequences of such an injury.

One fascinating aspect of the video is the inclusion of drawings from the medieval period, showcasing the inventive contraptions people with injuries and disabilities used to aid their mobility. Hicks himself recreates one such device, a brace made from copper strips and leather, which he explains would not restore an injured soldier to full battle readiness but could make guard duty more bearable.

The historical accuracy of Skyrim’s portrayal of the arrow-to-the-knee injury is highlighted by Hicks’ exploration. By examining the injury within a medieval context, it becomes evident that the quote, though initially perceived as a mere joke, carries some historical validity.

Insights into Historical Realities Through Video Games

In conclusion, the infamous ‘arrow to the knee’ quote from Skyrim has captured the fascination of both gamers and history enthusiasts alike. Kevin Hicks’ investigation into the injury’s historical context sheds light on the potential consequences and the inventive solutions employed by those affected. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly trivial aspects of video games can offer insights into historical realities.