The Crusades (2005) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The ending of The Crusades (1935) depicts a dramatic resolution to the Third Crusade, where King Richard the Lionheart (played by Henry Wilcoxon) and Saladin (played by Ian Keith) negotiate peace after a brutal war. Richard, initially driven by religious fervor and personal ambition, ultimately chooses diplomacy over continued bloodshed, symbolized by his marriage to Berengaria of Navarre (played by Loretta Young) as a political alliance. Saladin, portrayed as a noble adversary, agrees to allow Christian pilgrims safe passage to Jerusalem, marking a temporary truce. The film concludes with Richard returning to Europe, his crusade incomplete but his character transformed by the costs of war and the value of compromise.
Detailed Explanation of the Ending
The climax of The Crusades centers on the stalemate between Richard the Lionheart and Saladin, two legendary figures locked in a brutal conflict over Jerusalem. After a series of battles, Richard realizes that outright victory is impossible, and the human cost of continued warfare is too high. The film's final act shifts from battlefield heroics to tense negotiations, emphasizing the futility of war and the necessity of diplomacy. Richard's arc culminates in this moment-his initial zeal for holy conquest gives way to pragmatism, showcasing his growth as a leader. The treaty brokered between the two rulers allows Christians access to Jerusalem without further bloodshed, a compromise that reflects the film's underlying theme of reconciliation over fanaticism.
One of the most poignant elements of the ending is Richard's marriage to Berengaria, which serves as both a political maneuver and a personal turning point. Earlier in the film, Richard is betrothed to Alice of France for strategic reasons, but his eventual union with Berengaria symbolizes his shift from selfish ambition to a more mature understanding of duty. Their relationship, though initially transactional, evolves into genuine affection, mirroring Richard's broader transformation. The marriage also underscores the film's message that alliances-whether romantic or political-can be more powerful than warfare in achieving lasting peace.
Saladin's portrayal in the ending is equally significant. Unlike many historical epics of the era, The Crusades avoids painting Saladin as a one-dimensional villain. Instead, he is depicted as a dignified and honorable leader, whose willingness to negotiate demonstrates his wisdom and humanity. The mutual respect between Saladin and Richard elevates the ending beyond a simple victory-or-defeat binary, offering a nuanced take on the Crusades. This balanced representation was groundbreaking for its time and remains one of the film's most enduring legacies.
The final scenes show Richard departing the Holy Land, his crusade unfinished but his perspective irrevocably changed. The imagery of him riding away, with Jerusalem's skyline in the distance, underscores the bittersweet nature of his journey. He has not achieved his original goal of conquest, but he has gained something more valuable: a deeper understanding of the costs of war and the importance of compromise. The film's closing message is clear-true leadership is not about unwavering stubbornness but the ability to adapt and prioritize the greater good.
Unresolved Questions
Did Richard ever regret his decision to leave Jerusalem unconquered?
- The film suggests his growth made peace the right choice, but history shows he later planned another crusade.
- Alternatively, his later campaigns may have been driven by political pressure rather than personal desire.
What happened to Berengaria after Richard's return to Europe?
- Historically, their marriage was strained, but the film leaves their future ambiguous.
- The optimistic tone implies their bond remained strong, despite real-life tensions.
How did Saladin's people react to the truce?
- The film doesn't explore Muslim perspectives deeply, but Saladin's authority likely ensured compliance.
- Some may have viewed the agreement as a betrayal, though the film avoids this conflict.
Personal Opinion
The Crusades is a product of its time, with grand spectacle and romanticized history, but its ending remains surprisingly thoughtful. The focus on diplomacy over triumph feels refreshing, especially compared to other 1930s epics that glorified conquest. Henry Wilcoxon's performance as Richard sells the character's evolution, and the film's willingness to humanize Saladin is commendable. That said, the ending's idealism glosses over the Crusades' darker complexities, and Berengaria's role is underdeveloped. Still, as a classic Hollywood take on history, it delivers a satisfying conclusion that prioritizes character growth over battlefield glory. The final scenes linger as a reminder that even in war, understanding can be the greatest victory.
(Note: The Crusades is a 1935 Cecil B. DeMille film, and this analysis is based on its portrayal of events, not historical accuracy.)