Though I personally believe RS have no 'set' time period, if it was it would probably be the Renaissance now that you've pointed that out :lol:

Didn't know that there was widespread use of magic in the Renaissance.

 

 

 

Also the Elf Lands are to the far west, not east.

 

Runescape would be comparable to an allegory, so details such as direction and magic shouldn't interfere with the deeper meaning.

 

One of the requirements of being an allegory is that the creator(s) must have intended it to be such. I highly doubt that RuneScape was created to be representative of Renaissance Europe - just one point among thousands would be that the game was far smaller at its inception.

Runescape is its own world. it has feautures of both the enlightenment and the middle ages, but then again you have elves and skeletons and dragons, so...

Runescape is its own world. it has feautures of both the enlightenment and the middle ages, but then again you have elves and skeletons and dragons, so...

 

 

 

Right, but it's central theme is Renaissance Europe. It simply includes these other things for appeal.

Where does RuneScape fall in the timeline of history? Simple question right? Let's take a vote, how many of you would say it's the "Middle Ages"? Very good guess, since there are knights, castles, and monarchies that suggest that RuneScape is set during the Medieval Times.

 

 

 

However, that guess is wrong. I looked deeper into RuneScape (and my AP textbook :lol: ) and I have concluded that RuneScape is actually set during the Renaissance and Enlightenment eras in history, around the 14th, 15th or early 16th century.

 

 

 

This post is to provide evidence and invoke discussion on this topic. In addition, at the end I will also try to match up RuneScape areas with nation-states or foreign empires during the 14th, 15th and early 16th centuries.

 

 

 

Evidence

 

 

 

1. First a counter-argument. It's true that you find traces of medieval society in Runescape, such as the aforementioned knights and castles. However, it is important to note that during the Renaissance, knights and castles didn't magically disappear, they simply became less apparent. During the Renaissance, Feudal order didn't go *poof* and disappear, replaced by centralized monarchies. Neither did castles. This explains how there are still use of medieval weaponry. While improvements in warfare has begun, they are not very widespread. How many of you own a cannon? Now how many don't? Point proven.

 

 

 

2. Architecture. This is maybe the most standout evidence. Medieval architecture is primarily romanesque, with high and thick walls built mainly for defense. But it's clearly seen in cities such as Ardrouge, that new styles, Gothic and Baroque, are prevailing. Hell, the song in Ardy is even "Baroque". These buildings are less for defense, and more for appearance. Lumby church, for example, isn't blocking any cannonballs, but have a good "religious" look to it.

 

 

 

Again, although castles still exist, they are more remnants of the last age then new structures to identify the world.

 

 

 

3. Technology, another big indicator. A lot falls under this. First of all, the telescope in your PoH. Right, that was actually invented in the 1500s. Your character also seems to have a good sense of direction, no doubt because of the compass he or she always has, and invention that reached Europe during this time. On the topic of direction, that nice Sextant you use during Treasure Trails? Invention of this time period. The list goes on, the advanced ships, lamp oil, machinery, books (printing press!), hot air balloons, and so on. These were not seen in Medieval Times.

 

 

 

4. The Global Network. There is far-reaching trade. This is directly proven during The Fremminick Isles, when it is revealed that there is a trade route between Neitiznot and the far-away Draynor. This is indirectly proven with the appearance of similar items, technology, and customs throughout the world. There is an anvil in Relleka. There is also an anvil in the Desert (one of the Camps, I think, you smithed darts for the first time there, most likely). This technology has obviously traveled throughout the world. Without a Global Trade Network, that would mean that these two isolated areas developed the same exact invention. Likely? Not very.

 

 

 

Don't forget the entire Charter Ship network, with goods and ships around the world. In fact, don't forget the ship network as a whole. It literally stretches from the Tyras Camp to Mos le'Harmless.

 

 

 

5. Universities. Ok maybe not, there is still the educational facility at the Exam Centre, not to mention the private schooling shown during the random event. There are also many hints at education scattered all over, proving that education gained importance. Not in the Middle Ages you don't!

 

 

 

6. Sponsored art. King's statues, religious statues, many portraits, paintings in every wealthy home...what more evidence could you want?

 

 

 

In addition, you'll notice in the few Runescape paintings you can see close up, there is use of perspective, a Renaissance invention.

 

 

 

7. Religious Wars. Mainly a result in Europe of the Crusades and the Reformation, there are equals in Runescape. The Crusades and the God Wars are both ancient religious wars that happened before the current time period. The 30 Years' War and the on-going Religious Wars in RS are the more recent wars.

 

 

 

8. Commercial Enterprise. The huge Ali Morrisane desert merchant company, for example? The huge Charter Ship company? Ogre SPAS?!? Commercial Revolution and Capitalism, for sure.

 

 

 

9. Political and Social Structure. There's no feudal order. Sure there are still peasants, but they are loyal to the King of their region, not a lord or vassal. In fact, are there even any lords who rule in Runescape? I can only think of the Elf one. Point being, kingdoms are centralized now, instead of divided under feudalism. The behavior of the social system reflects this as well. You see greater social mobility among the Runescape population, which screams out Middle Ages! Oh wait, no it doesn't...

 

 

 

There's my evidence. Feel free to post your own!

 

 

 

Nations and RuneScape

 

 

 

Which nations represent which RuneScape kingdoms? (Or rather, it should be the other way around.) Let's take a look, here's what I've come up to.

 

 

 

Mortania = The Holy Roman Empire.

 

 

 

Used to be united under one Religion and strong (Saradomin, pre-Godwars) during the last time period. Then came the rise of another Religion (Zamorak), then came a cataclysmic war. Now the region is seperated, with the newer religion gaining huge ground. The region is nothing more than autonomous states somehow united under one rule, by force. That's Mortania, I mean, the Holy Roman Empire.

 

 

 

Gnomes and Dwarves = England.

 

 

 

These two are collectively used to represent England. It's evident from Dwarvish politics that one ruler does not hold all the power, but rather shares it with his Parliament. The Dwarves also demonstrate England's coming role as an industrial superpower, while the Gnomes demonstrate England's military organization and might. In addition, their isolation and seclusion has largely eroded their military power.

 

 

 

Plus, this argument can be as simple as "Gnomes say "Tally [garden tool]"". I think I'll use that.

 

 

 

Sophanem, Menahpos, Ullek = Ottomans, Safavids, Mughals

 

 

 

Not example in Europe, but still. These three have separate religious sects, but these sects are really part of the same basic core (Desert Pantheon). They all also compete with each other. I won't place a finger on which is which, and they all seem to be lacking the gunpowder they are famous for.

 

 

 

Kandarian = Italy

 

 

 

Simply because it's divided, with internal rivalries, yet a center of art and trade. It has widespread influence, but with limited real power.

 

 

 

Elf Lands = Far East

 

 

 

Isolated from everywhere, want to remain that way, yet strong. They have their own tradition, with their own religion, and it has kept them strong for centuries. Also, radicals are brewing internally (and supported/educated by the West), who want to open the Elf Lands up to the rest of the world. Familiar to China and Japan? Very, I think.

 

 

 

Das, however, has another interesting and also well-thoughtout theory:

 

 

 

I'd go more Mayan/Aztec .

 

 

 

The elf lands are an area people want to plunder and explore (Spanish inquisition) Different tribes with tensions between them and some were more open to trade with the Spanish than others be it through interest or nativity.

 

 

 

The elves also have some amazing building structures like the crystal city (macchu pichu( we cant go in yet and crystal weapons. The Incans/mayans/aztec's all were ahead of time with things such as sundials and other pyramids that people are less sure of how they were built.

 

 

 

In addition, the fall of the Aztec was partly because local tribes allied themselves with the Spanish conquistadors and helped destroy the empire. This just screams out in similarity.

 

 

 

Asgarnia = France

 

 

 

They both start with "F". That's it, kthxbai.

 

 

 

Ok not really, here's a deeper reason. Asgarnia is a diverse land, which plentiful resources, but largely human. France also contains many ethnicities and resources, but is also largely Catholic. Both lands dedicate themselves fully to one religion, and persecute others (Saradomin-Zamorak tensions, and the French persecution of the Huguenots.) In addition, Louis XIV (I think) claimed the throne at age 4. As a result, Cardinal Richelieu ruled in his place. This is similar to how the Asgarnian king in Falador is missing and Sir Amik Varse rules in his place. And if that's not enough, you also have an example of military power, which the French have under the Louises.

 

 

 

 

 

That's all I can figure out so far. If anyone has anything, don't hold back! Post away!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So as a final summary, I'd like to state that RuneScape is actually set during the Renaissance, and also all the similarities you can draw. Of course, if anyone has anything to add, or any corrections, please post them! :

 

 

 

Omg dude I love history too! I noticed all those things and 100% agree with you! Nice work :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Asgarnia = France

 

 

 

They both start with "F". That's it, kthxbai.

 

 

Say wha

Asgarnia = France

 

 

 

They both start with "F". That's it, kthxbai.

 

 

Say wha

 

 

 

I was thinking of Falador. It doesn't really matter though, since that sentence is a joke anyway.

Bump

wow :shock: that must have taken ages.

 

 

 

Well done, you have done a really great job :thumbsup: A very good read.

Well it doubles as studying :P

 

 

 

Thanks!

Well it doubles as studying :P

 

 

 

aww yes :P

 

 

 

Shame I didn't take history :(

 

 

 

Cant really do anything to do with biology :wall: :lol:

Well it doubles as studying :P

 

 

 

aww yes :P

 

 

 

Shame I didn't take history :(

 

 

 

Cant really do anything to do with biology :wall: :lol:

 

 

 

Lol, well bio is a lot more important than history, in general at least.

Great read :thumbup:

 

 

 

But what about the grand exchange.....i don't think that belonged to the medieval ages

Great read :thumbup:

 

 

 

But what about the grand exchange.....i don't think that belonged to the medieval ages

 

 

 

It's not in the Medieval Ages, that's what the entire post's point was.

 

 

 

During this time, there were banks and merchant corporations. It ties in with the theme, but no, there's no specific example of something like the GE

That was a very interesting read! : Though I always thought that the three main human-populated nations (Misthalin, Asgarnia and Kandarin) were based off English culture, medieval or Renaissance; and the Kharidian area to be a mix of Egypt and Arabia. Your idea makes just as much sense, though.

 

 

 

And isn't Canifis supposed to be based off Russian culture, rather than Roman?

That was a very interesting read! : Though I always thought that the three main human-populated nations (Misthalin, Asgarnia and Kandarin) were based off English culture, medieval or Renaissance; and the Kharidian area to be a mix of Egypt and Arabia. Your idea makes just as much sense, though.

 

 

 

And isn't Canifis supposed to be based off Russian culture, rather than Roman?

 

 

 

Someone posted this before, and I think he's right: Mortania is actually Eastern Europe. Your Russia example is one, and all the vampyres are stuff tie in with legends of Eastern Europe. Although the Holy Roman Empire IS Eastern European, it doesn't encompass the whole area.

How about the styles of clothing? A lot of the default clothing styles scream Renaissance, not medieval times.

 

 

 

Also, the Fremennik (sp?) Isles scream nordic, particularly Viking or maybe the Danes?

Great read, I'd never given much thought to the time period, but I agree with most of what you said and I'll be keeping my eyes open to more examples in the future.

Thank you! :thumbsup:

 

 

 

The Vikings really didn't exist at this time period. They already assimilated into other cultures.

It isn't like this game is "set" in a real life era in my opinion. All Complete fiction with a few allusions to some things.

 

 

 

Well, 1) This was kinda fun to figure out and I could say I was studying, and 2) Knowing the time period helps justify certain suggestions and helps predict upcoming updates (not as a whole, but the theme of it).

 

Studying for what? My AP test is today, which is the only reason I read through this whole post, haha.

 

 

 

OT: I think that Runescape is not meant to be set in any specific period, but has elements from many different times, including some more modern examples. Example: Gnomecopters and airplanes. Last I checked, there weren't any of those in the renaissance.

It isn't like this game is "set" in a real life era in my opinion. All Complete fiction with a few allusions to some things.

 

 

 

Well, 1) This was kinda fun to figure out and I could say I was studying, and 2) Knowing the time period helps justify certain suggestions and helps predict upcoming updates (not as a whole, but the theme of it).

 

Studying for what? My AP test is today, which is the only reason I read through this whole post, haha.

 

 

 

OT: I think that Runescape is not meant to be set in any specific period, but has elements from many different times, including some more modern examples. Example: Gnomecopters and airplanes. Last I checked, there weren't any of those in the renaissance.

 

 

 

World History, and if you took the test today, that probably means you took that one too :P

8. Commercial Enterprise. The huge Ali Morrisane desert merchant company, for example? The huge Charter Ship company? Ogre SPAS?!? Commercial Revolution and Capitalism, for sure.

 

 

 

You put SPAS instead of SPARS :shame:

8. Commercial Enterprise. The huge Ali Morrisane desert merchant company, for example? The huge Charter Ship company? Ogre SPAS?!? Commercial Revolution and Capitalism, for sure.

 

 

 

You put SPAS instead of SPARS :shame:

 

 

 

It's supposed to be Spas. The Ogres maintain a Spa Facility at Oo'glog.

 

OT: I think that Runescape is not meant to be set in any specific period, but has elements from many different times, including some more modern examples. Example: Gnomecopters and airplanes. Last I checked, there weren't any of those in the renaissance.

 

 

 

Or trains. (That train running from Dorgesh-Kaan to Keldagrim). And the mine carts. Neither of those appeared until much, much later.

Thank you! :thumbsup:

 

 

 

The Vikings really didn't exist at this time period. They already assimilated into other cultures.

 

Yes, the vikings would have been already gone, but the Danes would still be around. They would have been at war with Sweden at this point, and for me, they still seem to be like the Danes. A little off topic, but this would also be around the time of Hamlet.

 

 

 

I think that Runescape is not meant to be set in any specific period, but has elements from many different times, including some more modern examples. Example: Gnomecopters and airplanes. Last I checked, there weren't any of those in the renaissance.

 

I don't know if this really counts for anything, but Leonardo da Vinci drew and designed a Helicopter-like device in the 1400's. He also experimented with airplane designs. So, the concept is there.