Bloodborne Lore | The Executioners, Wrath of the Church

#fckVilebloodH8
This video is a bit more in-depth in terms of analysis of real historical events and figures. A little different than usual but hopefully something that you'll enjoy. Let me know what you want to see next.
Redgrave: / redgravedota
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Twitter: / angered_courier
Facebook: / mitch-l-462561553915283

[@agentmaine4746]

No one expects the Yharnam inquisition...I'll show myself out now.

[@sergeysmyshlyaev9716]

TFW when you learn that Logarius beacons can be destroyed with a gunshot while watching a lore video.

[@wvngamer1516]

I did after 7 years and a platinum earned! hahaha

[@dapperspider3766]

noticed the gold cone helmet 'clinks' against the ladder rungs as you slid down... XD

[@chrombopulusthegreat5729]

No it doesnt

[@mollywhoppedsouls_pvp]

Theres a popular meme clip made from it where the sound effect was added. Extremely late but there ya go

[@kikifigs4013]

@@chrombopulusthegreat5729 it does but it doesn't make any sound like that meme video

[@lucasssotero]

"Holy" shit! never thought that logarius could be an pthumerian, and never noticed how similar to the ancient chalice boss he is.

[@praisethesun5800]

I agree that the wheel is unWHEELdy

[@GigawingsVideo]

I bet getting smacked with one will make you ROLLing around in pain

[@DiddyBohlen]

Alfred and Solaire of Astora are voiced by the same guy so that immediately gives the Executioners a sympathy bonus. The Vilebloods are clearly villains since they/their hunters capture humans to feed or experiment on them. The Executioners could just from a basic standpoint be compared to the Blade of the Darkmoon. They punish those who prey upon the innocent. They went overboard by killing everyone involved with the Vilebloods including civilians but their intentions were of good nature. They most likely justified their actions by saying that their victims were guilty of not standing up against the Vilebloods and allowing them to continue their sinning. In my book, they started out as good guys but became so obsessed with their goal that they eventually lost their morality on which they originally based their position on.

[@bloodshdalwayz3565]

Nah they were just cunts that got obsessed with slitting women’s throats, if they really wanted to help the innocent they should’ve been fighting the beasts like everyone else was.

[@chrisandh9047]

bLoOdShD aLwAyZ there are more problems than just beasts in yharnam

[@bloodshdalwayz3565]

Just Stop please- ok sorry which is the bigger problem, the corrupt church or the giant beasts threatening to kick down your door and rip your head clean off your shoulders?

[@bloodshdalwayz3565]

Oh but let’s deal with the people in a castle far away from yharnam yea sure😂

[@chrisandh9047]

bLoOdShD aLwAyZ the church has clerics and is literally why the beast scourge happened its their fault and the vile bloods are evil they are overly obsessed with blood. You also don’t ignore a problem just cause another one is happening that just leaves more problems to deal with later

[@shelbyjackson1128]

Adding Ave' Maria into this video adds great effect cx

[@jennawhite5466]

I love that you used Ave Maria as the white noise of the video. Perfect song for this topic.

[@phillycosidae756]

The video spends a lot of time talking about the Executioners hunting down any enemies of the Church. But looking at the item descriptions, virtually all of them only describe fighting the Vilebloods. Alfred even describes himself as "Hunter of Vilebloods". And while the Executioners seem to hate the Vilebloods for their heresy rather than their actions... These are the same Vilebloods that are organized around kidnapping and murdering people to unsuccessfully make their queen have a god baby. The Vilebloods are just as much a cult of superstitious fanatics as the people who butchered them. I really enjoy the historical connections to the game's imagery. I wouldn't be surprised if Annalise were a reference to St. Catherine in those aspects, the events are so similar. I do think brushing over the Martyr Logarius quote or the Gold Ardeo description ignores a bit of the complexity of the Executioners.

[@dezopenguin9649]

Really enjoyable video! I especially liked the way that you compared the Executioners to the Crusaders and Annelise to St. Catherine (ironic, isn't it, to have icons of Christian faith inspiring both sides of that conflict...and of course, each deeply tainted in that peculiar Yharnam way). One thing does seem quite clear both from Alfred's statements and actions in the game as well as the descriptions of items that are Executioner-related: this is a group that is defined by genuine faith in the work they perform and the belief that they are, as Logarius said, "striving to be good." They are not like, say, Impostor Iosefka or the Choir or the School of Mensis or the Byrgenwerth researchers who preyed upon the Fishing Hamlet or the scholars of the Research Hall, who knew what it was they were doing and what their goal was--to pursue a path that "elevates" humans to the level of the Great Ones. Indeed, one suspects that the majority of Executioners would be horror-struck to learn these secrets (though some may have deluded themselves, as can happen with too much fanatic belief). It makes me suspect that this is the origin of the "Vile" (or in the Japanese, "kegare"--unclean or spiritually corrupt) description of the blood-kin of Cainhurst. The enemies of the Executioners are labeled "evil" in a way that even the most ferocious beasts are not. Only the Vermin hunted by the League come close, and there's at least a 50/50 chance that Vermin don't even exist as suggested by their description---that would certainly be an interesting parallel, as the two things in the game labeled with an implication of a moral judgment would be entirely defined by their opposition, groups that are explicitly fanatical and delusional. (Well, there's also a moral judgment in the curse of Kos laid upon the Old Hunters, "blasphemous murderers; blood-crazed fiends," but in that case there's a more objective viewpoint.) Given that the Executioners self-identify as "hunters," I'm not surprised how they wear the Hunter's Mark on their chests. As we see from Eileen (as you reference) precisely what a "hunter" hunts can distinctly vary--our own prey as hunters of the Dream actually appears to be Great Ones, she hunts hunters who are slipping into beasthood, the workshop hunters hunted actual beasts, and the Executioners hunt prey that may be any or all of the above based on their political stance, including most obviously the semi-human, Pthumerian-rooted Vilebloods. If we accept Redgrave's "Logarius = Pthumerian" connection (and there's no particular reason to deny it) then this would be a shortcut to the use of this symbology. Of course, it may have been bestowed upon them by the Healing Church as well--as we know from the use of the Communion Rune actually appearing in the Church's symbology (for example, on the gate in Cathedral Ward that the Hunter Chief Emblem opens), they have some knowledge of the words of the Great Ones, likely derived from the work of Caryll at Byrgenwerth. I'm looking forward to your future videos. I hope that there'll be plenty more Bloodborne content from you, since if nothing else there's over two months until October 25th! From some of your references in this video, it's clear you've already caught the bug, whereby you realize that each topic inevitably leads through branching paths to a half-dozen other topics and you realize that you've gotten yourself caught in an interconnecting web of lore that you probably need a few more eyes to keep track of all at once!

[@mitchl6896]

Hey, thank you for your long and complex feedback! I love reading thoughts like these. I have indeed caught the bug. Like Willem, I require the knowledge to ascend! It seemed so obvious once I noticed the distinct relation between the Capirote and the Ardeo, the Christian symbology is definitely ingrained in the meat of the lore. I normally post on the weekends, but the next one will probably be early next week, detailing the life and times of Maria. Again, like the Executioners, she is quite a well-covered topic, but I will try to inject my own unique thoughts on her as a character and see what we can dredge up. Over Dark Souls and Bloodborne, she ranks high on my list of favourite characters. Thanks again!

[@joko9364]

please look up the channel called real crusades history. modern "education" in regard to the crusades is very politicised and i believe real crusades history does a good unbiased telling of the information

[@mitchl6896]

I agree. I've read quite a few books about the crusades and the way there have been described changes A LOT. From the basis that they were retaliatory (they were, to an extent) to the basis that they were all mindless zombies of the church, there are a lot of different viewpoints. I'll check out the channel :)

[@mr.phillips]

I really wanted to enjoy this video, but I got high and all the footage of him dodging and fighting activated my ptsd and now I'm anxious.

[@septon4087]

You should've let the clinking sounds of the helmet stay in during that first part

[@freetheist-bc3wz]

Really late I know but in the actual game there is no clinks the meme added it in

[@ikasbramantya8585]

Finally someone notice the keris weapon 's reference..... I am javanese, and my great grandfather used to have that weapon.... My great grandfather and my grandfather believe that weapon hav some kind of superstitious power in it, and they used to do some kind of ritual on that weapon every newmoon came..., the owner believe that this weapon gives them variety 'power', depend of what the makers built for, such as invisibility over weapon attack, vanishing into thin air, teleportation for certain amount of time, and etc.... Believe or not, most people in my country believe it, but it considered heretic for most people around here to depend on such weapon....

[@whitephillip6997]

What country is that? Japan?

[@dzikripratama3776]

@@whitephillip6997 Indonesia

[@Insomnolant1335]

So what you're implying is that Cainhurst committed a centuries-long genocide against Yharnam that finally pushed the latter into action to retaliate? Interesting!

[@captainclown2718]

an executioner is hunting a vilebloods who is after eileen who pursues a Yahrnamite hunter... he is a hunter hunting a hunter hunting hunter...

[@KyleJordanGaming]

Incept-xecution.

[@monkeymode7529]

you know, I really respect u for pointing out that ur not trying to push a certain agenda against religion

[@critta603]

I've seen a lot of lore videos for bloodborne, but yours are by far the best keep it up

[@CardsNSleevesTCG]

0:30 it looks like you are hitting ur helmet on every handle of the ladder lol

[@ginosanchez7]

These videos are so informative! Im glad i came across them, they really help me understand the lore more, thanks man

[@charanko.]

thanks for taking so much time to research and prepare and film and edit and publish and continuing to make great content!

[@Jamjor]

Awesome work man, keep it up!! Very thought provoking. I love how you go deep into real history to find connections with Bloodborne.

[@lorelore1407]

Hey Mitch, great video, so in depth! Just wanted to say that you motivated me to finish a video i had in the works about the research hall. Thank you for making these, Bloodborne story and lore it's one of my favorites in the history of gaming!

[@mitchl6896]

Happy to be of service! I'll have a look at your vid!

[@dylantroyerdt]

I believe that the executioners are only one group, not many as you suggest. Reason being is that with referencing master Lagerious (forgive my spelling) with the executioners in the item description, FromSoft is only solidifying his position as head of the executioners. I noticed that when From work gets translated certain things get implied that are not there in the original translation. That is the Japanese translation to English before they give the sentences some of the personality we see in the game. Maybe try looking into translations from the Japanese version and let me know if I'm right if you want.

[@Gardensartoria]

Gods, Mitch, I can't get enough of these videos, and they're only getting better! Keep it up!

[@mitchl6896]

Comments like yours keep me motivated. Thank you!

[@MrVanityPrince]

Thank you for the videos man, they are really well researched. Always enjoy listening to your videos

[@mitchl6896]

Sean Sutherland you're welcome!

[@csmayer]

I love these videos man, thanks for the hard work! Since I can't play bloodborne myself, this is the perfect opportunity to get my dose of it. Please, keep it up!

[@mitchl6896]

Will do! Thanks for the feedback!

[@Th3ba1r0n]

6:50 So by that understanding, Lawrence and his crew were selling blood (something I think you mentioned in the last video) because that was indulgence to aid the church.

[@nickiminajstapeworm6334]

I really can't wait for you to get into the Byrgenwerth lore! I always find it interesting. Great video btw :D

[@mitchl6896]

Ah, yes, the famed "place of learning." We will get there soon enough, I'd wager ;)

[@STARRK666LAWLIET]

I always enjoy playing as my fanatic executioner character in bloodborne. I find it fun to roleplay your polar opposite in games. Watching this actually makes it seem even more than a polar opposite of me. The executioners and the healing church were pretty messed up if they are based on what you found. Excellent work as usual Mitch. :)

[@mitchl6896]

Thanks mate!

[@phantomog8457]

I for one certainly did not expect the Spanish inquisition ! Great video, love it !

[@Firestar1992]

The Ardio reminds me of Pyramid Head from Silent Hill. While likely unrelated, they have a similar unsettling effect to view.

[@ooccttoo]

Hey Mitch, I think that was my favourite video from you yet, the historical links were really amazing. I have a short idea to throw in if you'd like to listen, namely that Alfred is not actually a legitimate executioner. My evidence for this theory: when you first meet him, he says "You're a hunter, aren't you? I knew it. That's precisely how I started out!" This implies to me that he became an Executioner after the hunt had been afoot for a while, meaning he became one long after Logarius sealed away Annalise. Furthermore, if you summon him his title will be "Old Hunter -line break- Vileblood Hunter Alfred" NOT "Old Hunter -line break- Executioner Alfred". Also, his manic glee at killing Annalise, his straight-from-a-history-book knowledge of the Vilebloods, Brygenwerth and the Executioners and his suicide at Logarius' grave all imply to me that he was once a disillusioned young man looking for purpose in his life. "The weak give their life for a cause, the strong live for one".

[@mitchl6896]

Thank you! I'm right with you with that theory. It was something I wanted to include, along the lines of Alfred being almost comparable to a "Kylo Ren"-ish figure - thinking he understands his history, but ultimately missing some things and getting some facts wrong. Add onto this that the Hunter's Mark appears to be almost drawn onto the cloth and you have a semi-compelling case of Alfred being a wannabe. You could even go as far as comparing him to Solaire, seeing as they at least have the same voice actor. Like Alfred, Solaire wishes to become venerated as a warrior of a sacred and respected institution, but ultimately does not succeed. It's a pity that Alfred doesn't have his own armor set, something like "Alfred's Garb" which could talk about a young man pursuing a dream that was unfulfilled. Great thinking! I will hopefully have a chance to revisit it in a future video.

[@RENDAN_iel]

I took the Ardeo description as ironic because there are no eye sockets to see out of it. Aka they are blind while the description "claims" the opposite.

[@bigfella4714]

awesome video very interesting never played bloodborne but that was a very cool connection to real life keep up the great work c:

[@bibierjavec1150]

First of all, I love your videos and theories! One thing I would point out is that the wheel could just as likely be simply a berserk reference (since Logarius is an obvious Mozgus reference and one of his executioners uses a wheel just like alfred's) and while of course Miura himself still got it from historical source, it could be Miyazaki got it from him, without this entire wider context in mind. It is way more interesting to speculate about lore as if everything is deliberate though, and even with it being a reference, I still believe Miyazaki is thorough enough to research all the berserk stuff he puts in, just wanted to point it out as a contributing factor of why the wheel is in.

[@bibierjavec1150]

haha taking that back, found out you're an alt right weirdo

[@Kyser666]

@Mitch L I have to say Bravo to You sir *elegant bow* for telling us about queen of the vilebloods connection! that is such a fantastic theory I love it! Now I am glad I subscribed. Keep up the awesome work.

[@mitchl6896]

Thank you! Feel free to share it around :)

[@Synthetic-Rabbit]

I like how you bring up the Crusades... I've always found them interesting, I've read a couple books on them. The Executioners to me are like the Monastic Orders, such as the Templars.

[@BLung-tq2mm]

Another Great Video Mitch! I am looking forward to the Pthumerian video you mentioned you were doing next. The mysterious race has been a source of many theories and i am interested in what you have to say about them!

[@mitchl6896]

I'll have to be quite careful as they are a big topic, but hopefully it'll go over well withe everyone. I have some thoughts about Queen Yharnam that might rock the boat a bit, but that's the fun of it!

[@BLung-tq2mm]

Mitch L Indeed

[@iWillWakeYouUp]

This might be your best video yet. Fantastic findings and information! Btw, Logarius' sword is not so much a reference to the Drake Sword as it is to the Northern Regalia from Demon's Souls, which in turn can only be smithed out of Soul Brandt and Demon Brandt. They have a very similar shape to Logarius' sword.

[@mitchl6896]

Thanks, and yeah I should have picked up on the Demon's Souls. That's a game I need to play soon!

[@kaseygarris3075]

I can’t believe that he hit his helmet on each rung of the ladder as he slid down. The attention in this game to small details astounds me. From is always so amazing with this type of thing.

[@haiasieel6099]

I enjoyed this video, almost as much as I enjoyed sending Alfred into the Abyss of death in honor of My dear Queen Annalise...

[@guy7912]

I gave Alfred a nickname, Triangle Bob. Because of his nice illustrious helmet

[@ApsisApocynthion]

The wording for "band" could be used just to classify the executioners as a specific brand of hunters within the church. The church had the standard Yharnam hunters led by Ludwig, and choir member hunters as well who answered to Laurence. The choir hunters explore dungeons and sought to create rituals to enter nightmares associated with the "great ones" to gain insight. However I think the word "band" probably works in both ways. The choir was the intellectuals at the very top who tried to harness the power of great ones. The Yharnam hunters were the police who killed beasts whether these beasts where created by the church's blood transfusions or otherwise (this seems to be a world already filled with monsters like giant spiders). Then the executioners are like the military. They're not too concerned with beasts. They are after heretics and other large institutions that challenge their source of power. In that case it does make sense that different "bands" would exist for the executioners and the one we hear about in the game is one of many and happens to be the one that went after the vilebloods. Bloodborne desperately needs a sequel.

[@GloriousAguacate]

great video as always :D

[@maxmuller9272]

Very impressive. Keep up the good work

[@edvfya9922]

I was playing Hitman 3 while when this video autoplayed and I thought this music was coming from the game lol. I thought I did something special or something, it turns out Mitch just has great tastes in music and games!

[@lastsigil7241]

Really informative video I will continue to follow closely.

[@pyromaniacbridge]

Yet another well researched and thought provoking video, Mitch! Always look forward to seeing them. Did you forget to link Redgrave's channel in the description?

[@mitchl6896]

You're right, my bad. That's what happens when you're editing and uploading too late at night. Thanks for reminding me. I've added it to the description.

[@xaviersalinas3170]

This is freaking awsome

[@NightshadeX85]

The executioners came before the healing church , the church based their clothes on the executioners . The executioners were an already established order and came to fight the new blood queen Annalise once that was done the remains of Logarius army went to find the source of forbidden blood and destroy it hence executioners near possible labyrinth entrances . Most went into the old labyrinth and all were destroyed save one Ludwig who escaped by following the moon sprites from a found greatsword. Ludwig then went to Yharnam and followed Laurence and helped create the church hunters , remember silver greatsword based on moon greatsword , other notable church hunters are Archibald and Izzy.

[@stroopwafel3612]

Another excellent video my fellow Yharnamite! The thematic connection between the Healing Church and medieval Catholicism is a good one. Similarly they build their instution and huge power structure around a messianic figure who may or may not have existed at the dawn of recorded history so did the Healing Church break away from Byrgenwyrth to spread their messianic gospel of ''the old blood'' with Kos and Ebrietas playing a similar role in their 'religion'. Both being relentless in their pursuit with indeed there being some clear parallels between the Executioners and the Spanish Inquisition. Martyr Logarius almost being a Tomas de Torquemade of sorts. There is a lot of really interesting historic stuff in Bloodborne if you look carefully. Miyazaki loves to read and it shows in his games. It's like historic literary fiction, Berserk, theories about reproduction, Gothic horror, Lovecraft pulp and real world inspirations are all thrown into a blender and you get the brilliance of Bloodborne. :p Also I would love to see your interpretation of Mensis in a future video: the thematic parallels to the female menstrual cycle, Yahar'gul and what they tried to summon exactly. In many ways Mensis seems almost juxtaposed to the Healing Church despite them both being pretty vile in their own right. There are so many hidden themes in Bloodborne I feel that if Miyazaki pitched those ideas to Sony directly they would be shot down pretty much immediately. :p Anyways your Bloodborne lore videos are among the best on youtube. Keep up the great work.

[@mitchl6896]

Dankuwel, Stroop! Mensis is something I want to get into at some point. Right now it seems like I'm taking a bit of a roadmap out of Cainhurst, making stops at small areas of lore to cover as to not disturb the larger areas of lore around it... if that makes sense? Cainhurst seemed quite separated from the main story, which is why I started there. The Pthumerians are really fascinating me at the moment, so I wager they will be the next stop. I want to be REALLY careful about how I approach this area, but we will see what happens. Thanks again!

[@UsedGames]

All of the church's enemies will taste just the tip

[@grasseson3430]

Hello... I really liked this video, in here you mentioned the meaning of Ardeo and how it relates to the spanish inquisition and their crazy fanaticism aswell as the comparisions that can be drawn between the spanish inquisition and the executioners, Queen Annalise and Saint Catherine, even after almost 2 years of the game being out you still have some more info that i didn't see any other lore channel talk about, this just goes to show that you really put effort into researching this subjects and making videos, for that you have earned a sub, I expect your future Bloodborne videos to be equally as good and have as much effort put into them as this one. P.s You should have shot the sword. 15:34

[@trunganhang2147]

hi

[@dingydan2416]

Good day

[@mitchl6896]

I'm glad you liked this approach! It's a little different but I'm glad it worked out.

[@Unholy_Mango]

Soulsborne loves to reference Berserk, and that's why the breaking wheel is in the game, and why it's wielded by executioners. Father Mozgus, fan of the breaking wheel, and his personal group of executioners. Considering the kind of shit that went down with Mozgus and his executioners, you can damn well bet your analysis is pretty spot on. Berserk used historical context to begin with.

[@KitsuneShapeShifter]

Amazing as usual! I like the straight up approach to the Executioners and the real world research really gives a feel for their fanaticism; and I think that it is definitely wise to note the Hunter's mark on the armor and I like the way you reasoned round that. Also, you praise Bloodborne's story telling while YOURS is absolutely amazing as well =D Keep it up! And nice job finding the information about the Golden Ardeo; I think there's something REALLY FISHY going on with Burning Blood in this game. WHY IS THE BLOOD ON FIRE? And then you mentioned ''To Scorch' and I had to pause the video and go on and Lore Hunt before continuing xD Please try to make some sense of the Burning Blood if you're interested, I haven't seen any proper explanation, let alone speculation for it LOVE THE WHEEL ORIGIN STORY; MITCH L, WHEEL AND YOU DEAL!! NICE VIDEO! BUT!!! The Executioners' faces in DLC needs atleast some adressing if you're continueing on their topic, cause it's puzzling me to no end xD Anyway; amazing video, I enjoy every second and this time I especially liked the music choice and thought it was perfectly fitting given the Radiant Executioners' philosophy xD Gonna keep an eye out for the next one too Thank you Good Hunter, for what you do for Bloodborne Lore

[@mitchl6896]

Thanks for your feedback, I always enjoy your comments. What do you mean by the "Burning Blood?" I will eventually get to the DLC, I think. There was quite a lot more about the Executioners that I wanted to discuss, but didn't have the notes fleshed out, so maybe expect a follow up vid..? Thanks again!

[@KitsuneShapeShifter]

Mitch L I love your vids more~

[@mitchl6896]

***** Ah, right I gotcha. Yes! I think there's a lot to say about Maria and that habit of hers... When I want to do her video, I want to fill in ALL the gaps that people have left behind. Honestly, I have a fully fledged cutscene laid out in my head about how she came into Gehrman's care and everything. The burning blood will be something covered. Thanks for letting me know more about it.

[@KitsuneShapeShifter]

Mitch L Can't wait!! Good luck!

[@elcatrinc1996]

It stills makes me mad that people confuse the penitents and nazarenos with Klan members, but thats how life works i guess, thankfully we have Blasphemous and i think that will help to clear out the differences

[@TheSoijohn]

Lots of people are pointing at bezerk a bit too much about the soul games i guess. I like the way you did research for your very instructive video ! Because a lot of concept-artists ( like myself ), writers, devs, etc are advised to work from the source of their inspiration. So From may like Bezerk, but as a whole. The universe, the tone, but also where it came from. The original inspiration. Occidental medieval writings, Japanese mythos, etc.... Good work on this man ! Very entertaining.

[@mitchl6896]

Thank you! I appreciate your feedback.

[@DeadBotetes]

I like your analysis. But I disagree in the parallel between Saint Catarina and Analisse. The latter was inspired by the historical fugure of countess Bathory. However, there is a parallel between the catarina wheel and the logarious wheel. The executioners revered martyrdom as a symbol of absolution from higher powers, one of the justified reasons in the catholic church to impose extreme tortures before execution was to save the accused soul through martyrdom, for it was believed than in the plane between agony and death the soul could ascend to religious truth by epiphany.

[@DeadBotetes]

Miyazaki also took the idea from the wheel from berserk. Though I think is conspicuous that his reading of the Berserk manga lead to research the basis of it. (In the manga the parallel between the Catholic church and the dominant religion of the berserk universe is evident)

[@anthonydelfino6171]

Related to your investigation of the Gold Ardeo, a thought occurs to me. Is it possible that those who wear it are connected to the burning of Old Yarnham, or perhaps were some officiants at public burnings of the scourge beasts like we see in that first town square in Central Yarnham? Just a thought since it means burn.

[@JustZhekai]

Crosses sewn onto the right shoulder... Dope, every holy weapon is held resting on the right shoulder in game

[@KingofHuecoMundo]

Also to note. The Blade used by Martyr Logerius also looks like the Kris Blade from Demon's Souls. In Demon's Souls the Kris Blade was a ceremonial weapon that increased spell damage. Much like the Candle Stick from Dark Souls 3. But the Kris Blade in Demon's Souls was much stronger. I always was under the impression it worked similarity to Martyr Logerius in how it amplified his magic.

[@primarchlogarius]

Awesome video. Even after all these years still a thrill to watch. Do you have a parrot at your place?

[@jesseterr7483]

Great work. Something that strikes me as weird about when you meet logarious though is that he doesn't use the wheel that supposedely is his weapon..

[@jamesriccardo7640]

The wheel is more of the symbol popularized as his weapon, as he symbol of the wheel has meaning, stated in the wheel hunters badge. I feel it's more of a hallmark of the followers of logarious than his signature weapon

[@akiraamamiya8483]

Whenever I see someone slide down a ladder with the gold ardeo in my head I hear tttttttttttttttung xD

[@joshuahendricks9558]

Wheel is also used for the same reasons in berserk. An influence on Big Miz

[@Nightmareblader]

This was perfect :) I was doing some research as well (on Priscilla) and it brought me to a topic about the church vs heretics. Look up the word 'peculiar'.

[@mitchl6896]

Thanks Manuel!

[@Patrick-bu2uh]

another amazing, insightful video. I love the inclusion of real world history.

[@jmartens759]

and don't forget that the breaking wheel was the form of execution most favored by inquisitor mozgus from berserk.

[@GigawingsVideo]

And the comic referenced real life execution method of medieval time.

[@UltraHips]

Excellent music choice. Very fitting tho choose Mozarts Requiem

[@bwinz02]

8:55. Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition

[@marcusc9931]

And still the only thing I can think about is how the pointed helmet bangs on every step while sliding down the ladder.

[@kaylachapin6043]

So, I'm super late to the party but I have something to say: The Spanish inquisition is really interesting and fairly complicated. I had to get several books on it for a college course and I kinda know what I'm talking about but feel free to fact check and call out mistakes. One huge reason for all the religious violence following the protestant reformation was the protection of citizens. At the time, religion and government were very closely related and countries had official religions. Spain had very little tolerance for anyone who wasn't a perfect Catholic, and the Inquisition was a result of that. The monarchs of Spain petitioned the Pope and got permission to do an Inquisition, so while it was religious the King and Queen were the official heads not the church. Point 1: The Executioners were a lot more similar to the Inquisitors than you thought. Each religious group of the era thought that the other was pure evil, and that the leaders of said religion were actively compromising the salvation of people. Each side thought the other was a poison to society, and that by keeping that other religion suppressed they were protecting their people. This is really similar to how Alfred sees the work of executioners. He's protecting people from the bad, evil vilebloods. Point 2: The Inquisition and the Executioners both love their secrecy. You mentioned how the Executioners workshop was secret and seperate from the church. The Spanish Inquisition was the same way. People were arrested by the Inquisition and held for months without even knowing what they were arrested for. These prisons were hidden as well. People could (and surprisingly sometimes did) turn themselves into the Inquisition, but they were still taken to an undisclosed location and held there before their trials. Only after the Inquisitorial Judges had heard the witness testimony (The Spanish translates roughly to the story of their life) and the validity of that testimony had been tested would the Judges present the charges to the accused. That's what I've got, but I'm sure there's stuff I missed. My knowledge of the Inquisition is far from perfect. I hope you enjoyed my little history lesson though.

[@otakuofmine]

oh fk, for me it seems the parallel is even closer - what if he got the betrophel ring and proposes to Annlise, giving her the forbidden blood (making him the traitor), but she turned him down. that makes a lot of sense as reference.

[@brentloy131]

hey Mitch L! Are you doing anymore videos about Bloodborne! love your work!

[@cookietimekid]

The executioners remind me of Oprichniki, dont know a whole lot about either, from what ive heard they seem rather similar.

[@ri0t406]

I just love how there are no ads

[@Elphaba4Change]

Who sings the version of Ave Maria in this video? It’s one of the best I’ve heard.

[@BlessYowFayce]

can I ask for the songs used it this masterpiece of a video?

[@pleasedontfailusproduction1968]

Dude whats the opera in the back it sounds awesome

[@bigbadseed7665]

I have my own theory as to why the Executioners have the "hunter" rune on their uniforms. It involves Runesmith Caryll. I believe that Caryll was one of Laurence's earliest followers, and that he experienced visions and was slightly mad. He was "touched" as they say. This is how he was able to divine his runes through the use of Insight, rather than Blood. As for why he left with Laurence instead of staying with Master Willem, who preferred not to use the Blood, maybe he and Laurence were already close. Maybe they were brothers. Anyway, I believe that the Executioners joined they Healing Church early on, before the Beastly Scourge and the rise of the Hunters, but Caryll foresaw the rise of the Hunters and that the Executioners would be incorporated into the Hunters' ranks. He referred to the Executioners as Hunters, and so Laurence had the Executioners inscribe the "hunter" rune on their uniforms.

[@mitchl6896]

Awooo

[@mitchl6896]

+Jaypes Indeed, they are masters of their craft!

[@mitchl6896]

***** Thank you! I hope you stick around to see what else will be coming out :D

[@mitchl6896]

***** Thanks!

[@GigawingsVideo]

Regarding Keris blade, as a Javanese Indonesian I want to correct you a bit about Keris blades. 1. Keris is made by order, custom made to fit the owner, or made for special purpose. It's not just for executing or ceremonial purpose. 2. For Keris attacking guilty person, it's rarely or never happened. 3. Example for special purpose is when a blade was made with Beras Kutah (spilled rice) pattern, it's believed that this kind of Keris will make the owner rich. 4. Example for keris made for the owner, like Kyai Sangkelat (Master Sangkelat) that have beautiful pattern and well made curves. It's made to fit a king. 5. Also keris came with both straight blade and curved blade version. The important thing is not the curves, but the lower part near the handle and the pattern on it. Maybe the most popular keris in Javanese history was the one a guy called Ken Arok ordered from a master to kill a king. It took a whole year to make but Ken got no patience (he was a thug and a complete asshole) and took the blade before it was completed and murdered the master. With his last breath the master cursed the blade to kill 7 generations of men. In the end that blade was used to kill 6 men (including Ken Arok) before it disappeared. Who's Ken Arok? He's pretty much the father of future great ancient kings of Java. Uhhhhh.......

[@thatonegayfurry4177]

dam furry but amazing vid

[@chantingzhang]

Before you actually get into the topic the first thing I have noticed is that when the executioner character is sliding down, the gold Ardeo actually shakes like it was repeatedly hit by the bars of the ladder damn Fromsoft, what a detail you have thought of.

[@TheGrifhinx]

Whose creepy idea was it tho to play "Ave Maria" in the background

[@dark3rthanshadows]

13:48 song name please, i've seen looking for this song name FOR A LONG TIME!

[@dark3rthanshadows]

Mozart - Lacrimosa

[@MichalHejda]

Man thats great lore video and I really like it but a one small point. Kris is blade of Indonesia, more likely Malaisia and Filipino origin, where is still used as part of their matrial arts and rituals. I don't have any knowledge of its Japanese origin. If you have any, please send me your source. Ps.: No, I'm not dependent on wikipedia. Thank you for your answer and have a nice day (Sorry for posible grammar mistakes :-D)

[@mitchl6896]

I said "Javanese" not "Japanese," Java being in reference to Indonesia. Sorry if my pronunciation didn't come through properly.

[@MichalHejda]

Thank you for your answer :-) and I'm sorry for false accusation. Keep on with a great job :-)

[@esmith012]

Do you have a playlist for the DLC?

[@mitchl6896]

esmith012 What do you mean by playlist?

[@Lomito]

Logarious was simping for Queen Annalise.

[@AkosKovacs.Author.Musician]

0:29 *Ding ding ding ding ding ding ding ding ding ding ding, ding ding ding ding ding!*

[@joesaiditstrue]

@15:40 drake sword? could've just said Kris Blade from Demons Souls :)

[@nullpha]

Well, well… An odd hunter thou art indeed… We’ve tired of these piteous nights… Share in Our plight, and take oath against the church. If thou wouldst this path walk… …I prithee partake of my rotted blood.

[@SinthetikLED]

I think the hunter rune on his chest is not a norm for executioners but for Alfred. I think he did it himself, just like solaire with his sun. however this is kind of dismissed since you get the set from cainhurst and not Alfred but I think it's interesting since I think it's implied Alfred is a moon scented hunter

[@mitchl6896]

CollDork By Moon scented, you mean Paleblood, right? I don't know about that; Djura and Eileen were Paleblood hunters, and they seem to be much more... knowledgeable? and wise? Alfred strikes me as too zealous and loyal to the Church to be a Paleblood hunter.

[@SinthetikLED]

Mitch L my reasoning for this is based solely on his first line and speculation, so I understand why you'd be cautious. Eileen and Djura knew you "still had dreams" and I think Alfred saying he started out just like you implies he use to also be pale blood hunter. also is anybody really knowledgeable in bloodborne? they all seem pretty left in the dark, especially pale blood hunters. but Alfred has a decent understanding about how Yharnam works, just like you do at the end of the game. and my last point is that he could have been kicked out of the dream just Eileen and Djura for abandoning their contract and started hunting other things, like blood drunk hunters, vile bloods, and hunter who went old Yharnam.

[@mitchl6896]

CollDork it's an interesting concept by any means - I'll be doing a dedicated video on Paleblood eventually, and discuss these things. By the way, Alfred also says that he doesn't know much about "the inner workings" of the Church, but he could be feigning ignorance as well, possibly.

[@jesussancen123]

I always thought his sword looked more like soul brant or demon brant from demon souls

[@theblocksays]

Yeah me too, especially given how in Beta versions there were pple saying "Umbasa" as well; distant future of that universe.

[@slightlytwistedagain]

I'm really surprised you overlooked the Kris Blade in Demon Souls considering the research you did, also great video. You need to get playing Demon Souls mate. PS3's should be really cheap by now especially if you pick one up second hand, same goes for Demon Souls.

[@mitchl6896]

I will soon, for sure.

[@slightlytwistedagain]

Mitch L Just a note make sure you play offline, and I mean don't have your account signed in at all. It affects world tendency, resetting it to the middle every time you boot up the game. This can be quite frustrating if you want to unlock secrets as you can only access certain areas if you have pure white or pure black tendency.

[@mitchl6896]

slightlytwistedagain Will do, thanks for the tip. I've seen preowned PS3s for like $100.00, so I'll pick one up soon enough.

[@stroopwafel3612]

You'd figure Sony would release a Demon's Souls remaster on PS4 considering Bloodborne's success and the fact so many PS4 users never had a PS3. Espescially considering all the crap games that get remasters it boggles the mind that Sony isn't interested in a remaster of one of their best first party games of last gen. I know From Software isn't interested in remastering DeS but Sony could easily outsource it to Bluepoint who did an excellent job remastering the Uncharted games. *sigh* well in any way if you can pick up a cheap PS3 definitely do so. DeS is still a must-play for any Souls fan.

[@slightlytwistedagain]

stroopwafel en ijsje Sony doesn't have to outsource it, Japan Studio (which is a Sony 1st party studio) co-developed Demon Souls. Sony might have plans to do it but might be getting The Last Guardian out of the way first seeing as it's being released this year..

[@bradpara3782]

What's the secomgsomg in this vid ?

[@assdan27]

Late to the party, but the Kris is Indonesian, not Japanese.

[@arsyansugiri7296]

I thought he was saying Javanese. The thing is, the origin of kris is kinda debatable because it's made around many regions in Indonesia. But yeah, most of the historical evidence shows the kris is kinda widespread in Central Java

[@norealname1508]

Cool

[@davidsimpson4046]

The music is too loud in background for me

[@samb123078]

I can't wait until you get to the Old Hunters. None of the big lore hunters have satisfactorily explained it for me.

[@mitchl6896]

Are you referring to the DLC as a whole or just the Old Hunter NPCs faced in the nightmare?

[@ragnarhelder9562]

Most likely the former, btw great video, you've done a proper good job!

[@samb123078]

+Mitch L mainly what was the point of the nightmare? What was the secret everyone was protecting? What happened at the Hamlet? I have read many theories but none of them really fit with me.

[@mitchl6896]

Bins Wanger What do you make of Redgrave's theory with the Fishing Hamlet being a Whaling Town and Kos was either hunted or washed up on the beach?

[@samb123078]

+Mitch L I can accept that it was a whaling town. I don't buy that Kos was killed by the scholars. Kos parasite implies that Kos washed ashore already dead. JSF states that Kos' body washed ashore like that horror manga, which I believe was what happened. My main issue isn't how it happened, but why. What was the reason for this big cover up? What was the big deal? The church has been massacring people every hunt without batting an eyelash. What caused Maria, who was certainly a proficient killer to throw away her blade? She's killed so many malformed beasts that killing fish people shouldn't cause much guilt. What was the grave sin that caused all hunters to be cursed? Redgrave's (and fungo's) theory that the scholars killed Kos makes narrative sense but the evidence is against it. And what exactly were they researching in the Research Hall? Was Maria the warden or care giver? Or both? So many questions.

[@nikkovalidor4890]

the crusades werent about "fear of others" as you and a lot of people believe, it was more of "we conquered this land so GTFO and conquer something else" kind of war. they just used religion to bolster morale and to justify their actions. on both sides.

[@mitter352]

nikko validor it was definitely an element of the crusades as it is with most wars

[@Mrtimberwolf789]

nikko validor The crusades were to defend and retake lands taken by advancing Muslim forces.

[@mitter352]

Roosterbutt those lands you're referring to were taken 400 years prior to the crusades and they were taken from oppressive empires. And during those 400 years Muslims Jews and Christians lived peacefully until Christians from thousands of miles away decided to start a holy war

[@Mrtimberwolf789]

Mitter I hope you mean by oppressive empires you mean the Islamic Caliphates that slaughtered and enslaved millions throughout up until the first world war

[@mitter352]

Roosterbutt how would "muslim forces" take land from "Islamic Caliphates" think for two seconds and drop the bullshit strawmans