This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
Anachronism is something that does not correspond to its time, that is, it appears not in the historical period in which it should. In other words, anachronism is a mistake in time.
Types of anachronisms:
- Chronological — when an object or event does not correspond to the historical period.
- Terminological — when words or concepts are used that did not exist at a certain time.
- Cultural — when habits, behaviors, or technologies not characteristic of the described era are shown in films/works.
- Chronological anachronism Essence: An object, character, or event enters a time period in which it could not yet exist or no longer existed.
Examples:
- In a movie about Ancient Rome, soldiers have firearms.
- In a medieval novel, potatoes are mentioned — although they were brought to Europe only in the 16th century.
- An exhibition about Kievan Rus with icons that appeared centuries later.
This is the most common type of anachronism in films, books, and games.
- Terminological anachronism Essence: The use of concepts, terms, or names that did not exist in a certain historical era or that have a different meaning.
Examples:
- Calling the princes of Kievan Rus "presidents" or "ministers."
- Stating that ancient Greek philosophers "fought for human rights" — although the very concept of human rights formed much later.
- In a school textbook, writing: "the Vikings fought for Norway's independence" — although such a state did not exist at that time.
Terminological anachronisms often occur in popular science texts and journalism.
- Cultural anachronism Essence: Behavior, morals, fashion, habits, or social roles are demonstrated that did not correspond to the culture of that time.
Examples:
- A woman in ancient Rome wears modern clothing and behaves like a modern feminist — although the role of women was limited then.
- Vikings drink coffee and talk about "career growth."
- In a novel about the 17th century, the main character behaves like a modern teenager with TikTok slang.
This type of anachronism is most often used intentionally in films and works to bring events closer to the modern viewer/reader.
