Ah, Conan the Barbarian. The name brings forth images of bulging muscles, shining swords, and a damsel or two. Conan doesn’t wait for someone to rescue. He accidentally saves while grabbing a beer. Besides the muscles and loincloth, there's lore and cinematic history. Grab your sword and let's explore essential questions about this iconic barbarian.
I. General Questions about Conan the Barbarian
Is Conan the Barbarian a good movie?
"Good" is subjective. It's like using a broadsword to butter toast. Technically possible, but there are better tools. "Conan the Barbarian" (1982) won’t win Oscars for dialogue. Yet, for epic battles, wild landscapes, and Arnold Schwarzenegger's presence, it’s a good time. It’s a cinematic feast of testosterone and villains. Picture it as a heavy metal power ballad – not subtle but entertaining.
What is Conan the Barbarian known for?
Conan defines the barbarian hero. Created by Robert E. Howard in the 1930s, he represents sword-and-sorcery. This genre emphasizes action and fantastical worlds over intricate storytelling. Conan's tales occur in the Hyborian Age. This is a fictional prehistoric time, post-Atlantis and pre-recorded history. Imagine fierce warriors and monstrous creatures. It’s Conan’s playground. He hails from Cimmeria, a land as rugged as he is. He operates in a beautiful yet brutal world. Conan symbolizes raw masculinity and ultimate freedom, often through violence.
Is Conan the Barbarian based on a true story?
No historical records show a muscle-bound Cimmerian king. Conan and the Hyborian age are purely created by Robert E. Howard. Howard was a master of pulp fiction who envisioned this world in the 1930s. Think historical fiction without actual history. He drew from various mythologies; they merge into a whimsical past that feels both ancient and imaginatively real. While you won't find him in textbooks, his cultural impact is undeniable.
Is Conan the Barbarian an antihero?
Things get interesting here. Conan isn't your typical knight in shining armor. He operates in shades of gray, far from traditional heroics. Back in 1982, Conan arrived on screen as a literary antihero. His journey isn’t about altruism or world-saving; it’s personal codes and vengeance. He prioritizes justice and survival over moral order. This ambiguity makes him compelling. He’s neither good nor evil; he’s just... Conan.
Is Conan the Barbarian a good guy?
Let's analyze this "good guy" label. Conan doesn't fit the boy scout mold. He isn’t rescuing kittens from trees unless the kitten has something he wants. Overviews portray him as morally ambiguous, which is accurate. His motivations are personal honor and vengeance, not good deeds. Wrong him or his, and expect his wrath. The brutal murder of his family drives him. Violence is his preferred answer. Underneath that exterior, he shows loyalty and moments of mercy. He isn’t purely evil; his violence often serves a purpose in survival.
Key points about Conan:
- Driven by revenge: Vengeance fuels Conan's actions, seeking justice for wrongs against him and his people. This quest leads to intense action sequences.
- Barbarian code of honor: Forget knightly chivalry; Conan has his own set of rules. Honor is personal. Respect must be earned or else.
- Not inherently evil: He isn’t a villain but also not a saint. Violence is necessary for survival; he uses it pragmatically, not maliciously.
What is Conan the Barbarian's philosophy?
Conan has a philosophy despite being a barbarian. It isn’t from a dusty tome; it’s seen in his actions and worldview. Overviews describe it as realism, stoicism, and living in the moment. He rejects ideals and embraces reality's grit. Think Nietzschean meets barbarian pragmatism. Conan values action over words, strength over weakness, agency over everything else.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Nietzschean Influence: Conan embodies Nietzsche's Übermensch concept of self-mastery and rejecting norms to forge a path through will and strength.
- Clear-Eyed Realism: He perceives the world as it is, recognizing life's brutality and cruelty. No sugarcoating; survival takes precedence.
- Stoicism and Living in the Moment: Conan focuses on now; experience and immediacy matter. Afterlife concepts aren’t for him; he seizes the day and embraces life’s pleasures.
- Rejection of Idealism and Religion: While acknowledging gods like Crom, he doesn’t believe in a benevolent deity. His faith lies in action - his own strength.
- Moral Ambiguity: His morality is situational; brutality may be necessary for survival or revenge.
- Crom's Influence: Crom sits atop a mountain, watching without interfering. Conan's devotion to Crom focuses on strength and courage in action.
II. Conan the Barbarian (1982 film)
What was the famous line from Conan the Barbarian?
The iconic words echo through cinematic history: "Crush your enemies. See them driven before you and hear the lamentation of the women." Not Shakespearean, but pure Conan. It marks dominance, conveys brutality, and stays unforgettable. This line encapsulates his worldview in one powerful sentence.
Who is the woman in Conan the Barbarian movie? (Valeria, played by
Sandahl Bergman
Valeria is brought to life by Sandahl Bergman. She is not just "the woman." Bergman is an American actress and dancer. Valeria shows fierce grace. She complements Conan's raw power. Valeria is a warrior. She wields a sword and is independent. Bergman's performance earned her a Golden Globe and a Saturn Award. Valeria stands as Conan's equal, and a partner in adventure. She isn’t merely a love interest; she embodies a thief and a formidable presence.
Who was the villain in Conan the Barbarian? (Thulsa Doom, played by James Earl Jones)
James Earl Jones plays Thulsa Doom. He is the villain in the 1982 film. Doom is not merely a brute; he's a cult leader and a sorcerer. Jones conveys Doom’s chilling calmness and sinister intelligence. Doom contrasts Conan; where Conan is raw, Doom is cunning. Their battle represents physical versus ideological conflict. Thulsa Doom becomes a villain you love to hate, and Jones plays him perfectly.
What is Conan pushing in Conan the Barbarian? (The Wheel of Pain)
Young Conan pushes the "Wheel of Pain." This giant mill symbolizes his childhood hardships. The wheel reflects his enslavement and hard grind. Conan and other kids are sold into slavery there. The task is back-breaking, yet it builds his physique. Years of pushing the wheel make him powerful. It's not just a mill; it’s his crucible, shaping him into the warrior we know. The "Wheel of Pain" stands for hardship, resilience, and Conan's enduring spirit.
Does Arnold Schwarzenegger speak much in Conan the Barbarian?
Schwarzenegger's dialogue isn't Shakespearean in "Conan." He speaks little in the film. His memorable line, "Crush your enemies..." is delivered efficiently. Originally, there were plans to have him narrate the story for more lines. The final cut emphasizes visual storytelling instead of lengthy monologues. Schwarzenegger’s physicality does most of the talking. He commands the screen with few words, demonstrating his charisma.
How old was Arnold Schwarzenegger during Conan the Barbarian?
Schwarzenegger was around 35 when "Conan" came out. This was his prime. He embodied a seasoned warrior, showcasing physicality and presence. At this age, he had the right muscle build and charisma. He convincingly portrayed Conan as a legendary barbarian. This timing solidified his status as an action star.
Who is the NBA player in Conan the Barbarian? (Wilt Chamberlain)
Basketball icon Wilt Chamberlain appears in "Conan!" This was his only film role. His brief appearance adds unexpected star power to the movie. It's a fun fact showcasing the film's eclectic nature. Also featured is Olivia d'Abo as the teenaged princess. "Conan" mixes brawn, beauty, and basketball royalty in an unusual blend.
III. Conan the Barbarian (2011 film)
Is Conan the Barbarian 2011 worth watching?
The 2011 "Conan" with Jason Momoa divides fans. It is a modern take seeking grit and intensity. AI ratings offer it 3.5 stars. It's not ground-breaking but not terrible either. Momoa brings raw energy to the role. Whether it's worth watching depends on your expectations. If looking for a faithful adaptation, you may feel disappointed. If you like action-packed fun with Momoa, you might enjoy it. It offers barbarian mayhem despite being different.
Did Jason Momoa star in Conan the Barbarian?
Yes, Momoa played Conan in the 2011 film. He stepped into a role made famous by Schwarzenegger. Momoa brings rugged charisma to the character. He portrays a savagely raw version of Conan. This role elevates Momoa further as an action star. It set the stage for roles like Aquaman, showcasing his primal energy as Conan.
IV. Conan's Character and Origins
What race is Conan the Barbarian? (Cimmerian)
Conan is a Cimmerian, not a real world ethnicity. In Howard's Hyborian Age, it's a distinct people inspired by various cultures. They are depicted as fierce from cold mountains of Cimmeria. His origins are harsh: born on a battlefield, son of a blacksmith. His Cimmerian heritage shapes his fierce independence and love of freedom. It defines who he is beyond mere ethnicity.
Why is Conan the Barbarian so strong?
Conan's strength comes from various factors beyond just muscles. His upbringing is tough and his instincts strong. He has a "Wilderness Instinct” from survival training as a barbarian. This instinct aids him, making him a formidable fighter. He is also a "Master Warrior," skilled in combat techniques. Years of battles and struggles shape him into a powerhouse.
How old is Conan in Conan the Barbarian?
Conan’s age fluctuates through his tales, showcasing his evolution. In "Frost Giant's Daughter," he's about 19 years old. As he becomes King of Aquilonia, he's in his 40s. This range indicates he grows through various adventures from young warrior to king. His aging adds complexity to his character despite being larger than life.
Who killed Conan the Barbarian?
Spoiler alert! In comics, Doctor Doom ends Conan’s story. During their showdown, Doom deals the fatal blow by slitting Conan's throat. This moment ties into a serpent god revival storyline. While comic deaths are rarely permanent, this event signifies Doctor Doom’s formidable nature, able to defeat even mighty Conan.
Did
Conan the Barbarian have a son? (Conn)
Yes, Conan is a father. In "Conan of Aquilonia," he has a son named Conn. AI Overviews confirm Conn's role in the saga. "Conan of Aquilonia" is about Conn's coming-of-age. He initially fears his father. Over time, he becomes a skilled warrior. Conn plays a key role in defeating Thoth-Amon, one of Conan's enemies, and is a potential heir to the throne. Conn adds depth to Conan's story, highlighting themes of fatherhood and legacy in a barbarian kingdom. In novels and comics, Conn fights alongside his father, continuing the barbarian legacy.
Who does Conan the Barbarian love? (Belit, Zenobia)
Conan's love life is thrilling. He is not known for romantic tales but shares intense connections. Belit, the pirate queen, is often seen as his first love. She matched him in spirit and ambition. Their relationship was passionate and tumultuous. Tragically, Belit meets a violent end. Later, as king, Conan finds love with Zenobia. Zenobia offers a different partnership. She shares his throne and burdens. Conan loves deeply, but in his own manner – often intense and shaped by adventure.
Is Conan the Barbarian White?
Conan's Cimmerians are descendants of Atlanteans, according to Robert E. Howard. They appear as pre-Celtic people with dark hair and light eyes. This description aligns them with a Northern European type. "Whiteness" as a construct is modern and less relevant to Howard's original vision of the Hyborian Age. Based on his descriptions, Conan and his people are often depicted as fair-skinned and dark-haired, fitting a general Caucasian archetype.
V. World of Conan
What age is Conan the Barbarian set in? (Hyborian Age)
Conan's adventures take place in the Hyborian Age. This era is a fiction by Robert E. Howard. It does not exist in actual history but is a long-lost time imagined by Howard. He saw it as a bridge between the fall of Atlantis and the rise of ancient civilizations. This age is filled with savagery, sorcery, empires, and dark gods. It aligns perfectly with Conan's character.
Was the Hyborian age real?
No, the Hyborian Age is fictional. It exists as a part of Howard's mythology for Conan's tales. Picture it as a crafted fantasy world. Howard drew from historical and mythical sources but remains entirely in the realm of fiction. His world-building makes the Hyborian Age feel vivid, despite being only imaginary.
What is the Hyborian age?
The Hyborian Age is Howard's creation, where Conan's saga unfolds. AI Overviews define it as a fictional prehistoric time resembling ancient Europe and North Africa, yet distinct in its tales.
Setting:
- The Hyborian Age lies between Atlantis' sinking and ancient Egypt and Sumeria's rise. It's a dark era, filled with legendary happenings.
- Howard's map shows dry Mediterranean land, a Caspian Sea reaching the Arctic, and parts of Africa submerged. It is a world reshaped, ripe for adventure.
Purpose:
- Howard created the Hyborian Age to give his stories a sense of place and history. It helps visualize Conan as a character in a believable world.
- He designed this setting for exciting adventures, not only for Conan but for other heroes as well.
Related works:
- "The Hyborian Age" is also an essay by Howard detailing this fictional era's history and geography.
- "Conan: The Hyborian Age" is a tabletop RPG by Monolith Board Games, inviting players into Howard's world for adventures.
Other uses of the term Hyborian Age:
- In Marvel Comics, the Hyborian Age is seen as a distinct era around 14,000 to 9500 BC, solidifying its place in fantasy.
Who is the god in Conan the Barbarian? (Crom)
Crom is the chief god in Cimmerian mythology. He is powerful but not benevolent or interventionist. AI Overviews present Crom as a chthonic god, linked with the underworld, while also paralleling an Irish Sun god. This shows Howard's blend of mythological elements.
Is Crom a real god?
Yes and no. AI Overviews explain that "Crom" refers to both an Irish god and Conan's god. It showcases mythological overlap.
Crom Cruach (Irish God):
- Crom Cruach was significant in ancient Irish paganism.
- He was a primary god before Christianity spread in Ireland.
- Known as Crom Dubh or "the crouching darkness," indicating ties to darkness and earth.
- His worship included sacrifices, including livestock and firstborns, performed on Samain.
- Writers attribute Crom Cruach's decline to St. Patrick's arrival.
- "The head of all gods" is one meaning of his name, showing his high status pre-Christianity.
Crom (Conan the Barbarian):
- Crom is central to Cimmerian belief.
- He has striking traits: white hair and black eyes.
- Crom is sometimes seen as a Storm God, linked to elemental power.
- Crom rarely intervenes but has saved Conan once from banishment, showing some involvement despite his aloofness.
- He’s speculated to be one of the ancient gods in the Hyborian Age.
VI. Creation and Authorship
Did Robert Jordan write Conan the Barbarian novels?
Robert Jordan contributed to the Conan mythos, known for "The Wheel of Time." He wrote original Conan novels beyond Howard’s tales. Fans regard Jordan's works highly, considering them among the best non-Howard tales. He captured Howard's spirit while expanding Conan's exploits. Although not the original creator, Jordan significantly influenced Conan's legacy.
Did Marvel create Conan the Barbarian comics?
Marvel Comics is tied to Conan in comics. "Conan the Barbarian" launched by Marvel in October 1970 starred Howard's character. The series ran 275 issues until 1993 and became key to Marvel's sword-and-sorcery genre. Marvel popularized Conan among new fans, impacting his image in popular culture. Robert E. Howard created him, but Marvel solidified his status as an icon.
VII.
Production Details
Where was Conan Barbarian filmed?
The rugged landscapes of "Conan the Barbarian" were filmed in Bulgaria. The production used various Bulgarian locations to create the Hyborian world. Bolata, Nu Boyana Film Studios, and Vitosha mountain served as backdrops. Bulgaria's varied terrain gave the film mountains, forests, and rock formations.
Why was Conan the Barbarian Rated R?
"Conan the Barbarian" earned its R rating for violence. It features strong bloody violence and graphic content. The film has intense sequences of combat and visceral swordplay. It is not for the faint of heart. The film embraces barbarian roots and showcases stylized yet brutal violence.
How heavy was the sword in Conan the Barbarian?
Conan's broadsword weighed 9 pounds. It measured 38.6 inches in length. This weighty weapon reinforces Conan's strength and the brutality of his world. The sword is not delicate; it is a tool of war. Its heft represents Conan's power, emphasizing the film's commitment to intense action.
VIII. Comparisons to Other Media
Why is Kang afraid of Conan?
Kang the Conqueror fears Conan due to his raw power. Kang, with his advanced technology, recognizes Conan as a threat. This fear arose from Kang witnessing Conan's strength against Kulan Gath, a powerful sorcerer. Conan's tenacity makes him a dangerous adversary, even for a futuristic supervillain.
IX. Confusion with the Movie "Barbarian"
Why is Barbarian so highly rated?
The movie "Barbarian" (2022), a horror film, has gained praise. This often leads to confusion with "Conan the Barbarian." "Barbarian" blends horror elements and thematic depth. It tackles issues like gentrification, abuse, and toxic masculinity. This combination of scares and social themes enhances its acclaim.
Why is Barbarian disturbing?
"Barbarian" explores disturbing themes like misogynic behavior and toxicity. Even "good guys" show troubling behaviors, highlighting toxic masculinity. The film explores societal anxieties, making its horror resonate deeply. It reflects real-world issues, creating a truly unsettling horror experience.
What is the creepy movie about Airbnb? (Barbarian)
The "creepy movie about Airbnb" is "Barbarian." It revolves around a woman staying at an Airbnb who discovers hidden darkness. This sets the stage for horror, revealing the unease beneath everyday situations. The Airbnb setting taps into modern anxieties about safety and the unknown.
What WTF is Barbarian about?
"Barbarian" is a "WTF" experience. The plot centers on a woman who finds her rental home double-booked. This leads to shocking revelations and unsettling discoveries. The film plays with expectations, delivering unpredictable scares that leave audiences saying, "WTF just happened?"
Is the Barbarian movie worth watching?
Absolutely, "Barbarian" is widely considered "worth watching." It appeals especially to horror fans. It blends scares with intriguing themes, making it a compelling experience.
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