Introduction
Anime has become a global phenomenon, with a wide variety of genres and themes that cater to different interests. One of the most popular genres is historical anime, set at different periods in history. The Middle Ages, or the Medieval era, is a well-liked historical backdrop for anime creators to explore. Japan was going through a lot of changes during this time, including the emergence of the samurai class and the arrival of Buddhism. It’s a fascinating period that provides a rich backdrop for storytelling. We’ll examine the top 25 Middle Ages-themed anime in this article, including those from Japan. These anime have something for everyone, from romantic suspense to political intrigue. Let’s plunge right in and discover the fascinating world of historical anime!
Tears to Tiara
A Middle Ages-era romanticized portrayal of ancient Britain is the setting for the Japanese anime series “Tears to Tiara.” The story revolves around the exploits of Arawn, a young man who was revived by the priestess Rhiannon. With his newly acquired life, Arawn leads a rebellion against the oppressive Empire of Gaius, which seeks to enslave and conquer the entire world. Throughout the way, Arawn and his companions encounter a range of difficulties, including powerful adversaries, political intrigue, and the discovery of ancient truths.
“Tears to Tiara” contains a gripping story, well-developed characters, and a unique setting. The image of ancient Britain in the anime is based on Celtic mythology and combines magic with historical elements. It also has a terrific blend of action, drama, and humor, making it a must-watch for fans of historical and fantasy anime.
Altair: A Record of Battles
An epic historical anime called “Altair: A Record of Battles” is based on the Ottoman Empire in the Middle Ages. Mahmut, a young and gifted strategist who holds the position of Pasha, a top official in the Turkiye Stratocracy, is the focus of the narrative. Mahmut must utilize his abilities to defend his kingdom and stop the birth of a new empire when his nation is thrust into conflict.
An original anime called “Altair: A Record of Battles” combines political intrigue, fantasy, and historical details. It explores complex issues like power, justice, and nationalism and has a large cast of characters, each with its own goals and worldviews. The anime also features amazing visuals and an intricately detailed universe that is inspired by Middle Eastern civilizations and architectural styles found in the real world.
Scrapped Princess
An anime series called “Scrapped Princess” takes place in a world where medieval and futuristic technology coexists. The plot centers around Pacifica, a young princess who is thought to be a cursed child tasked with bringing about the end of the world. She is therefore being sought after by a number of groups, including her own family, who want to assassinate her and stop the prophecy from coming true.
With its distinctive fusion of science fiction and fantasy, “Scrapped Princess” presents a novel perspective on the Middle Ages. It has a vast cast of individuals, each with its own motivations and views, and a well-developed universe with complex governmental institutions. The anime also addresses issues like fate, destiny, and the value of ties to one’s family.
The anime’s well-written plot, which has numerous twists and turns and keeps viewers interested, is one of its strong points. Fans of both fantasy and science fiction should watch this story because it also has a good amount of action and suspense.
The Twelve Kingdoms
An anime series called “The Twelve Kingdoms” takes place in a Middle Ages fantasy world based on ancient China. The protagonist of the tale is a little child named Yoko Nakajima, who is transferred to this realm and made to rule one of the twelve kingdoms, Kei, under duress. Yoko encounters obstacles from both internal and external threats, such as insurrection, scheming politicians, and supernatural forces, as she tries to adjust to her new life and carry out her responsibilities.
A well-made animation with a distinctive perspective on the Middle Ages is “The Twelve Kingdoms.” Its elaborate and thorough worldbuilding is influenced by actual Chinese mythology and history. The anime explores topics like identity, self-discovery, and the weight of duty and has a strong cast of characters, each with its own difficulties and reasons.
The anime’s immersive storytelling, which takes viewers on a voyage through a vividly constructed world full of peril and adventure, is one of its strong points. A colorful and aesthetically attractive experience is produced by the animation and art style.
Samurai 7
An anime series called “Samurai 7” takes place in medieval Japan of the Middle Ages. The plot centers on some samurai who have been hired to defend a small village from some bandits who have been terrorizing the region. For the sake of the village and its residents, the samurai must put aside their rivalries and band together.
An original anime called “Samurai 7” combines historical fiction and science fiction themes. The anime is set in a futuristic world that uses cutting-edge technology like mechs and energy weaponry yet upholds feudal Japan’s cultural and historical traditions. The anime addresses themes like respect, loyalty, and sacrifice and has a wide group of characters, each with their own special abilities and characteristics.
The action-packed fight scenes in the anime, which highlight the samurai’s talents and tactics, are one of its strong points. The world and people are brought to life in a breathtaking way by the animation and art style, which are also visually appealing.
The Seven Deadly Sins
“The Seven Deadly Sins” is an anime set in medieval Europe. The Seven Deadly Sins, a group of knights who betrayed the kingdom, are now seeking to save it from an evil force. One of the Seven Deadly Sins “The Rise of the Shield Hero” is an anime set in medieval Europe. Naofumi Iwatani and three other young men are summoned to another realm to become renowned heroes. Naofumi, the Shield Hero, fights to prevent a world disaster despite being mocked and betrayed.
“The Rise of the Shield Hero” is a gripping anime about treachery, redemption, and strength. It has a well-developed world with intricate political and social institutions and a large cast with various personalities and motivations.
The anime shows Naofumi’s character development as he overcomes his early expectations and becomes a hero. The anime has spectacular battles, fascinating monsters, and a sense of urgency that keeps viewers on edge. Meliodas, the leader, is rage, thus he has a special power.
The comedy, adventure, and fantasy anime “The Seven Deadly Sins” is action-packed. The anime has a complicated political system and a diverse cast with various personalities and goals. It addresses redemption, forgiveness, and repercussions.
The anime’s rich animation style vividly shows the characters and their skills. The anime’s battles and comedy keep viewers entertained.
The Rising of the Shield Hero
An anime series called “The Rise of the Shield Hero” is set in a universe that is modeled after medieval Europe in the Middle Ages. The narrative centers on a young man named Naofumi Iwatani, who, together with three other boys, is sent to another world to become a great hero. Naofumi goes out to prevent a global catastrophe after being selected as the Shield Hero, despite being initially mocked and deceived by everyone around him.
The Rise of the Shield Hero is an engrossing and powerful anime that addresses topics like treachery, atonement, and the consequences of power. A large cast of characters with a variety of personalities and motivations inhabit a fully built universe with intricate political and social institutions.
One of the anime’s strengths is how it depicts Naofumi’s character growth as he learns to get past his early biases and mature into a hero in his own way. Together with exciting fight scenes, mystical creatures, and a sense of urgency that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, the anime also has magical creatures.
Moribito – Guardian of the Spirit
An anime series called “Moribito - Guardian of the Spirit” takes place in a made-up world that is modeled after Heian-era medieval Japan. The story follows a skilled warrior named Balsa, who is tasked with protecting the young prince of the New Yogo Empire from those who wish to harm him. As she travels with the prince, Balsa is forced to confront her own past and the dark truths that have haunted her.
“Moribito – Guardian of the Spirit” is a beautifully animated anime that explores themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the importance of family. It features a well-realized world with intricate details of medieval Japan, including its customs and folklore. The anime also boasts a cast of rich and engaging characters, including Balsa, who is a powerful and talented fighter with a tragic background.
One of the anime’s strengths is its attention to detail in both its world-building and character development. The anime features beautifully choreographed fight scenes that highlight Balsa’s skills as a warrior, as well as moments of quiet contemplation that allow viewers to reflect on the character’s motivations and emotions.
The Heroic Legend of Arslan
A fictional world based on Sassanid-era medieval Persia is the setting for the anime series “The Heroic Legend of Arslan.” As he attempts to retake his kingdom from the Lusitanian army, which has invaded and taken control of his capital city, the story follows Arslan, the young prince of Pars. Along the journey, Arslan gathers a network of faithful comrades and learns the brutal truths of combat and politics.
The beautifully produced anime “The Heroic Legend of Arslan” addresses subjects including politics, conflict, and leadership. It depicts a convincing environment filled with precise aspects of medieval Iran, including its traditions, buildings, and military strategies. A complex and interesting cast of characters can also be found in the anime, including Arslan, a young and inexperienced prince who is trying to establish his worth as a leader.
One of the anime’s strengths is its nuanced exploration of political intrigue and the consequences of war. Epic battle scenes can be found in the anime, but it also takes time to examine how war affects both soldiers and civilians. The anime does not hold back from depicting the terrible reality of war, forcing the protagonists to make difficult decisions with lasting effects.
Goblin Slayer
In the anime series “Goblin Slayer,” goblins are a common threat to human civilization in a medieval fantasy setting. The narrative centers on a young priestess who, in order to carry out her duty to her goddess, joins a group of intrepid travelers. However, when they are assaulted by several goblins, their mission takes a sinister turn, leaving the priestess with a gruesome and harrowing encounter. She is rescued by the enigmatic character known as Goblin Slayer, whose personal goal is to exterminate all goblins.
The dark and gritty anime “Goblin Slayer” explores subjects like trauma, retaliation, and the effects of violence. It has a well-developed universe with intricate medieval fantasy characteristics, including its creatures, magic, and social strata. A deep and flawed array of characters may also be found in the anime, such as Goblin Slayer, a competent but cold-hearted warrior with a tragic background.
The anime’s uncompromising depiction of the cruel and horrifying nature of goblin invasions is one of its virtues. Although it might occasionally be distressing to watch, the anime does not hold back from depicting the brutality and anguish that its characters go through. The fact that the characters are constantly in danger and subject to consequences raises the stakes and sense of urgency in the narrative.
Lord Marksman and Vanadis
An anime series called “Lord Marksman and Vanadis” takes place in a universe based on medieval Europe. The plot centers on Tigre, a great archer who gets involved in a conflict between the nations of Zhcted and Brune. The Vanadis of Zhcted, a troop of formidable female warriors who are all armed with magical weapons, capture Tigre. Tigre is given the opportunity to prove himself by working for Eleonora, the leader of the Vanadis, rather than being put to death.
The visually stunning anime “Lord Marksman and Vanadis” examines subjects like politics, conflict, and loyalty. It contains a well-realized environment with comprehensive aspects of medieval Europe, including its culture, politics, and fighting methods. The anime also has a diverse cast of characters, including the Vanadis, who are powerful and independent women with their own unique personalities and motivations.
One of the anime’s strengths is its intricate and well-paced plot. Action-packed war scenes and dramatic political intrigue keep the audience on the edge of their seats as the plot takes unexpected turns. The characters are complex and engaging, with their own personal issues and goals that propel the plot along.
Hai to Gensou no Grimgar (Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash)
A medieval fantasy setting is the setting of the anime series “Hai to Gensou no Grimgar,” also known as “Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash.” A group of strangers who have no recollection of their previous life awakened on this planet are the subject of the story. They are compelled to take on odd occupations and participate in the monster battles in order to make ends meet and survive in this bizarre and dangerous world.
Slow-moving and introspective, “Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash” is an anime that discusses issues like loneliness, bereavement, and friendship. The worldbuilding is exquisite, and the animals, magic, and setting are all exquisite examples of medieval fantasy. The main party of adventurers in the anime is among a cast of nuanced, realistic individuals that battle their own anxieties and inner demons.
One of the anime’s strengths is how much it emphasizes character development and psychological inquiry. The protagonists are forced to confront their own weaknesses and vulnerabilities as they navigate this dangerous and unfamiliar environment. The anime’s portrayal of the primary band of adventurers as having a strong sense of family and togetherness makes the audience care about their triumphs and setbacks.
Castlevania
The popular video game franchise of the same name served as the inspiration for the anime series “Castlevania,” which takes place in a dark and gothic medieval world. As Dracula and his armies of demons threaten humanity, the story follows Trevor, the last surviving member of the Belmont family, as he battles them. Other allies of Trevor’s include the sorceress Sypha Belnades and the dhampir Alucard, a descendant of Dracula.
“Castlevania” is a visually stunning animated film with a distinctive and ominous tone. The animation’s vivid color palettes, dark, detailed scenery, and passionate figure designs are reminiscent of classic gothic horror films. Also, the anime boasts a gripping and exciting storyline that is full of drama, action, and unexpected twists.
One of the anime’s benefits is the emphasis it places on character growth. Each character drives the plot along with their own distinct struggles and goals. Trevor is a cynical and hesitant hero who has been demoralized by his family’s history, in contrast to Sypha who is a kind-hearted and knowledgeable wizard who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. Alucard is a complicated and confused character who must face both his father’s love and his own awful background.
Kingdom
The Warring States era, which lasted in ancient China from 475 to 221 BC, is the setting for the anime series “Kingdom.” Shin, a young orphan who aspires to be a great general and unify China under one ruler, is the protagonist of the story. He enlists in the Qin army, one of the seven warring states, and finds himself entangled in a complicated web of political intrigue, conflict, and internal conflicts.
“Kingdom” is a historical epic that covers a huge and rich setting, with intricate aspects of ancient Chinese culture, military, and politics. Character development is another key component of the anime, with each character having a distinct past, goals, and personality. The main character, Shin, is a lovable and determined hero who learns and matures over the book.
One of the anime’s strengths is its epic battles and strategic warfare. In the anime, the use of infantry, cavalry, and siege weapons are just a few of the tactics and strategies that were employed in ancient Chinese warfare. High stakes and huge repercussions for the characters are present in the battles, which are dramatic and visceral.
The Beast Player Erin
A medieval planet where people and enormous creatures cohabit is the setting of the anime series “The Beast Player Erin.” Erin, a little girl who wants to be a veterinarian like her mother, is the protagonist of the novel. Nevertheless, after being accused of a crime, Erin must navigate a complicated political terrain in order to clear her mother’s name and defend the creatures she cares about.
An original and captivating animation, “The Beast Player Erin,” tackles issues of harmony, the conflict between cultures, and environmentalism. The anime features a wide variety of fantastical animals, along with in-depth descriptions of their habitats and behaviors. The anime also examines the complex relationships that exist between people and animals, as well as how social, political, and individual variables influence these relationships.
Character development is a feature of the anime. Erin, the series’ endearing and persistent heroine, faces numerous challenges and failures. She needs to face both her personal prejudices and those of the culture she lives in. She encounters a wide variety of people on the journey, including humans, monsters, and hybrids, who question her viewpoint and aid in her personal development.
Attack on Titan
An anime series called “Attack on Titan” takes place in a dystopian world where humanity is in danger of going extinct. The story follows a group of young soldiers who must battle giant humanoid creatures called Titans, which have all but wiped out the human population. The soldiers are members of the Survey Corps, a military unit tasked with venturing beyond the defenses surrounding the last stronghold of humanity and learning more about the Titans.
The dark and dramatic anime “Attack on Titan” addresses themes of survival, sacrifice, and the human condition. The anime depicts a harsh, merciless world where characters must battle horrifying foes and death is always a possibility. The anime also digs into the psychological impact of living in such a terrible environment, with characters battling with trauma, loss, and despair.
One of the anime’s strengths is its world-building. The universe of “Attack on Titan” is intricately detailed, with rich nuances of its past, present, and future. The anime also has a multi-layered, intricate plot with many unexpected turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The characters are also well-developed, with each one having their own unique personality, motivations, and flaws.
Hyouge Mono
The historical anime “Hyouge Mono” is set in the Sengoku period of Japan, which was characterized by intense political unrest and social unrest. The story follows the life of Furuta Sasuke, a retainer of Oda Nobunaga, one of the most powerful warlords of the period. Sasuke must negotiate the perilous political terrain of feudal Japan while torn between his passion for the tea ritual and his duty to his lord.
The anime is notable for taking a distinctive stance on historical accuracy. “Hyouge Mono” explores the daily life and culture of the time, focusing especially on the tea ceremony, which was a significant part of social and political life at the time, in contrast to other historical anime that concentrate on epic battles and heroic deeds. Sasuke’s struggles with questions of loyalty, ambition, and morality are among the psychological issues that the anime explores in relation to its characters.
The attention to detail in “Hyouge Mono” is another strength. The clothing, architecture, and weapons from the time period are all depicted in the anime in breathtaking detail and accuracy. The use of conventional Japanese painting methods in the animation lends the anime a distinct and genuine appearance.
Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic
“Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic” is a fantasy anime set in a world influenced by the Middle East during the medieval era. In a world where magic and mythological animals are real, the story follows the exploits of Aladdin, a young boy with a magical flute, and his buddy Alibaba, a former thief, as they explore dungeons and uncover governmental intrigues.
The anime stands out for its world-building and mythology. The universe of “Magi” is intricately detailed and draws from a blend of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and European culture and history. The anime covers complicated political systems and power battles between numerous factions while showcasing a broad variety of magical creatures, including djinns, giants, and mythical beasts.
The anime’s characters are likewise well-developed and have intriguing backstories and motivations. Aladdin is a naïve but powerful mage who is searching for his true identity, while Alibaba is a charismatic and ambitious young man who wants to become a powerful leader. The anime also features a diverse cast of supporting characters, each with their own unique abilities and personalities.
Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri (GATE)
The fantasy anime “Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri” is set in a world where a mysterious gate has opened up in contemporary Tokyo, leading to a parallel world where magic and mythical beings exist. The story follows the adventures of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) as they venture into the new world and engage in a power struggle with the locals.
The anime is set in a medieval-inspired world where magic and technology coexist and features a wide range of mythical creatures such as dragons, elves, and giants. The anime addresses issues of conflict, politics, and cultural clashes, as the JSDF strives to negotiate their way through a society that is very different from their own.
The characters in the anime are well-developed, and each JSDF soldier has a distinct personality and set of abilities. The protagonist, Youji Itami, is a capable JSDF officer who is also a passionate geek, and his knowledge of anime and manga often comes in handy in the new reality. The anime also has a wide ensemble of supporting characters, including a dragon princess and a mage, each with their own reasons and ambitions.
Guin Saga
High fantasy animation “Guin Saga” is set in a setting with elements of the Middle Ages. The plot centers on the exploits of a warrior named Guin, who awakens in an enigmatic forest with no recollection of his past and just his amazing combat prowess.
Guin becomes involved in a struggle for the throne of the Parros kingdom, which is on the verge of war, as he sets out on a quest to uncover his true identity. He forges connections along the journey with a wide range of individuals, each of whom has their own goals and secrets, including a young prince, a female mercenary, and a strong sorceress.
The universe of the anime is extremely well-detailed, with complicated governmental structures and philosophies. The battles are huge and include superb animation that displays the characters’ amazing combat prowess and abilities. As the characters strive to survive in a world where violence and political intrigue are the norms, the anime also examines themes of identity, fate, and the effects of war.
Samurai Champloo
A unique fusion of hip-hop and feudal Japan may be found in “Samurai Champloo.” The journey of Mugen, a renegade samurai with a crazy fighting technique, Jin, a quiet ronin with a traditional sword fighting style, and Fuu, a vivacious girl looking for a “samurai who smells of sunflowers,” is followed in the anime.
They encounter all kinds of mishaps and perilous circumstances as they move across Japan’s Edo era, from dueling with fellow samurai to battling bandits and assassins. The anime is renowned for its breathtaking animation, which fuses contemporary animation techniques with traditional Japanese art forms, as well as its varied music, which includes jazz, hip-hop, and other genres.
In addition to its distinctive action scenes, “Samurai Champloo” is well recognized for its use of breakdancing and umbrella fighting by Mugen and Jin. The anime is a masterwork in fusing several cultures and aesthetics to create a world that is both recognizable and novel.
Records of Lodoss War
A group of heroes’ journeys in the world of Lodoss are chronicled in the classic medieval fantasy anime “Record of Lodoss War.” A young knight named Parn embarks on a mission to emulate his father’s heroic achievements at the start of the narrative. During the trip, he meets other adventurers who join him in their battle against evil, including the elf Deedlit, the dwarf Ghim, and the sorcerer Slayn.
Dragons, magic, knights, and epic battles are just a few of the medieval fantasy staples that are featured in the anime. The beautiful character designs and elaborate backgrounds of the animation and art style are evocative of old-fashioned fantasy artwork. The series’ soundtrack, which was created by the renowned anime composer Mitsuo Hagita, is highly noteworthy.
The fact that “Record of Lodoss War” started out as a tabletop RPG campaign is one of its distinctive features. In the 1980s, a group of Japanese players devised the original plot, which later spawned numerous novels, manga, and anime adaptations. This context offers the anime a rich, realistic universe with developed characters and complex plots.
Dororo
A grim and dark anime called “Dororo” is set in feudal Japan. Hyakkimaru, a young samurai who was born without limbs, eyes, ears, or a nose due to a deal his father made with demons, is the protagonist of the novel. In order to recover his lost body parts and vanquish the demons who cursed him, Hyakkimaru embarks on a journey.
He encounters Dororo, a young orphan who becomes his traveling companion and aids him, along the route. Together, they battle a variety of otherworldly foes and hostile adversaries while learning the truth about Hyakkimaru’s background.
Dark and mature themes like murder, death, and betrayal are prominent in “Dororo.” Deeper issues like the cost of power and the nature of humanity are also explored in the anime. With a hand-drawn appearance that adds to the gritty and realistic atmosphere, the animation style is particularly distinctive.
Yona of the Dawn
A shoujo anime called “Yona of the Dawn” is set in a hypothetical Korean feudal country. The narrative centers on Princess Yona, the only child of King Il, who must run for her life after being betrayed by a childhood friend. Yona embarks on an adventure to retake her throne and restore her kingdom to its former splendor with the aid of her devoted bodyguard, Son Hak.
Yona meets a variety of personalities along the way, all of whom have special talents and histories. Yona’s friends assist her in overcoming the numerous obstacles she encounters, from a proficient archer to a formidable dragon warrior.
Character growth is emphasized in “Yona of the Dawn,” which is remarkable for its strong female lead. Yona begins as a protected princess, but she quickly gains the ability to cope with the harsh realities of her surroundings. The bonds she has with her friends vary and develop as she does.
Vinland Saga
The Viking Age, which was a time period in Northern Europe from the late 8th century to the mid-11th century, is the setting of the historical anime “Vinland Saga.” Thorfinn, a young Viking warrior who seeks vengeance on the person who killed his father, is the main character of the novel.
Thorfinn is drawn into the struggles of numerous factions as he travels across various regions of Europe, including the English army and the Danish army. Along the trip, he also meets Canute, a pacifist who plays a significant role in the narrative.
The breathtaking animation in “Vinland Saga” captures both the majesty of the natural world’s scenery and the ferocious savagery of the fights. Along with having complicated motivations and backstories that give the plot complexity, the characters are also well-developed.
The exploration of subjects like conflict, violence, and the human condition in “Vinland Saga” sets it apart from other works of fiction. The animation illustrates the effects of violence and the toll it has on both those who do it and those who are the victims. Also, it looks at how religion influences society and how cultural variations affect individuals’ lives.
Conclusion
An interesting period in human history was the Middle Ages, commonly referred to as the Medieval Period. It was a period of enormous change and upheaval, with wars arising from the rise and collapse of empires as well as clashes between many cultures and religions. It is understandable why anime makers have drawn inspiration from this time period and produced some genuinely outstanding works of art.
We’ve featured 25 of the best Middle Ages-themed anime in this blog article, some of which are set in Japan and others in Europe. Each of the anime in this list presents a distinctive viewpoint on the time period, highlighting various facets of its politics, society, and culture.
There’s something on this list for everyone, regardless of your preference for historical dramas, grand wars, or nuanced characters. We sincerely hope that this guide has assisted you in finding fresh anime to watch and new angles from which to view the rich history of the Middle Ages.
