This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
Anachronism is something that does not correspond to its time, that is, it appears in a historical period in which it should not. 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 was formed much later.
- In a school textbook, writing: "the Vikings fought for Norway's independence" — although such a state did not yet exist in their 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 the time.
Examples:
- A woman in ancient Rome wears modern clothing and behaves like a modern feminist — although the role of women was limited at that time.
- Vikings drink coffee and talk about "career growth."
- In a novel set in 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.