Anachronism

An anachronism is something that is out of its historical context, belonging to a different time period than the one it exists in. This can be an object, a person, an idea, a custom, or a behavior. Often, anachronisms are unintentional errors, revealing a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of history. They can, however, also be employed deliberately for humorous or artistic effect, serving to create a jarring juxtaposition between different eras. The identification of an anachronism relies on accurate historical knowledge and the ability to discern elements inconsistent with the established timeline. These inconsistencies highlight the changing nature of culture and technology and can enrich the understanding of the past by creating a new perspective. Anachronisms can be minor and easily overlooked, or highly significant and integral to the meaning of a narrative or artwork. They can be seen as errors or as clever and unexpected juxtapositions.

Anachronism meaning with examples

• In a historical drama set in the 18th century, a character wearing a wristwatch would be considered a clear anachronism. Wristwatches weren't common until the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making their appearance in the 1700s a historical impossibility. This error immediately disrupts the viewer's immersion and signals inauthenticity regarding the historical accuracy of the production.
• A modern businessman using a smartphone in a play about ancient Rome would represent an anachronism. While the play might have been trying to represent power through communication, the smartphone is not historically valid in the time period. Audiences would quickly recognize the incongruity and be taken out of the ancient world the play tries to invoke.
• The practice of using electric lights in a film depicting the medieval era is an anachronism. Since electricity wasn't yet available at that time, it will jar the viewer’s expectations. This is an example of a technical detail clashing against the period being presented.
• A novel's use of modern slang in a scene taking place during the Victorian era creates an anachronism. While slang evolves and changes with time, the phrases would not have been used during that historical period. Thus, it would give an impression of the time period being inaccurate.