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{{Era|AC2|Renaissance}}
{{Era|Timeline}}{{WP-REAL}}
{{WP-REAL}}
{{Update|''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''}}
{{Working Revamp|Nostalgia AC}}
{{Youmay|the event|the [[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)|downloadable content]]}}
{{Youmay|the event|the [[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)|downloadable content]]}}
{{Quote|You should be cleansing your homes. Cleansing your SELVES! There are bonfires to feed! Prayers to be said! Penance to be done!|Savonarola ordering Florentine citizens to return to their medieval lifestyles.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Quote|You should be cleansing your homes. Cleansing your SELVES! There are bonfires to feed! Prayers to be said! Penance to be done!|Savonarola ordering Florentine citizens to return to their medieval lifestyles.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Event
{{Event Infobox
|prev = [[Discovery in Spain]]
|prev = Inception of the [[Age of Discovery]]
|next = [[Confrontation in the Vatican]]
|next = [[Confrontation in the Vatican]]
|image = [[File:Still life 1.png|300px]]
|image = ACID Bonfire of Vanities Concept.jpg
|name=Bonfire of the Vanities
|timeframe = [[Renaissance]]
|timeframe = [[Renaissance]]
|date = 1497 - 1498
|date = 1497 - 1498
|place = [[Florence]]
|place = [[Florence]]
|outcome = *The death of [[Girolamo Savonarola]]
|outcome = *The death of [[Girolamo Savonarola]]
*[[Assassins]] reacquire the [[Ezio's Apple of Eden|Apple of Eden]]
*[[Assassins]] reacquire the [[Apple of Eden 6|Apple of Eden]]
|key = *Assassins
|key = *Assassins
*Savonarola's forces
*Savonarola's forces
Line 23: Line 21:
**[[Paola]]
**[[Paola]]
*Savonarola's forces
*Savonarola's forces
**Girolamo Savonarola}}
**Girolamo Savonarola
}}
The '''Bonfire of the Vanities''' was a political movement in [[Florence]] during the years 1497 and 1498 in which [[Girolamo Savonarola]], an [[Italy|Italian]] priest of the [[Dominican Order]], preached for Florentine [[civilians]] to return to [[Middle Ages|medieval]] lifestyles.


The '''Bonfire of the Vanities''' was a political movement in [[Florence]] during the years 1497 and 1498 in which the [[Italy|Italian]]-{{Wiki|Dominican Republic|Dominican}} priest [[Girolamo Savonarola]] preached for Florentine [[civilians]] to return to medieval lifestyles.
Following the expulsion of Florence's former rulers, the [[House of Medici|Medici]], Savonarola assumed control of the city after acquiring the [[Apple of Eden 6|Apple of Eden]] in 1488.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Identity]]'' – [[Database: Bonfire of Vanities]]</ref>


Following the expulsion of Florence's former rulers, the [[House of Medici|Medici]], Savonarola assumed control of the city after acquiring the [[Ezio's Apple of Eden|Apple of Eden]] in 1488.
==Ascension to power==
{{Quote|It's not the city he's enthralled, but its leaders: men possessed of influence and power. They, in turn, oppress the citizens and ensure his will is done.|Niccolò Machiavelli discussing Savonarola's new system of power.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Florentine Fiasco 2.png|thumb|250px|Ezio and Machiavelli discussing Savonarola]]
In the year 1497, the [[Assassins|Assassin]] [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]] returned to Florence to find it controlled by Savonarola and his nine lieutenants.<ref name="Florentine Fiasco">''[[Assassin's Creed II]] – [[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)|Bonfire of the Vanities]]'' – [[Florentine Fiasco]]</ref>


==The Mad Monk==
Ezio met with [[Niccolò Machiavelli]] on one of the [[Arno]] bridges, and Machiavelli confirmed that Savonarola had taken control of Florence with the aid of the Apple of Eden. Eager to reclaim the Apple, Ezio declared that they should work on retrieving it, though Machiavelli rebuked him. Machiavelli then explained that Savonarola's control began to take shape a few weeks prior, when the once reviled man became one that people "worshiped".<ref name="Florentine Fiasco" />
{{Dialogue|First woman|Sometimes I wish the Assassino (Assassin) would return to Firenze, that we might be rid of this tyranny.|Second woman|It's just a myth! A story parents tell their children.|Two women talk about Ezio in Florence, 1497.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Florentine Fiasco 2.png|thumb|250px|Ezio and Machiavelli discuss Savonarola]]
In the year 1497, the [[Assassins|Assassin]] Ezio Auditore once again returned to Florence to find it in the grip of Savonarola and his lieutenants. Ezio soon met with [[Niccolò Machiavelli]] on one of the Arno bridges. Machiavelli greeted Ezio, and remarked he chose ''"a fine time for a homecoming"''. He confirmed that Savonarola had taken control of Florence, aided by the "treacherous artifact". With this, Ezio declared that they should work on retrieving it. However, Machiavelli rebuked this statement, claiming that it would be more complicated than Ezio thought.


Ezio then asked Machiavelli to tell him of the recent events leading up to the bonfires. Machiavelli told Ezio it started a few weeks earlier, when the man everyone reviled was the one they later "worshiped". However, Machiavelli revealed this was only part of Savonarola's tyranny, as Savonarola had taken control of the city leaders, those who held such influence and power over the city's districts. These leaders in turn oppressed the people and ensured Savonarola's will was done.
However, Machiavelli revealed that this was only part of Savonarola's tyranny, as Savonarola had taken control of city leaders who held influence over Florence's districts. These leaders in turn oppressed the people and ensured Savonarola's will was done.<ref name="Florentine Fiasco" />


==Savonarola's Lieutenants==
==Assassination of Savonarola's lieutenants==
{{Quote|If we can silence his lieutenants and stir up discontent, he will be distracted and I will have a chance to strike.|Ezio to Machiavelli about the Lieutenants.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Quote|If we can silence his lieutenants and stir up discontent, he will be distracted and I will have a chance to strike.|Ezio explaining his plan to assassinate Savonarola's lieutenants.|Assassin's Creed II}}
The two passed into the Oltrarno District of Florence and discovered the bodies of a contingent of soldiers bearing the emblem of the [[House of Borgia|Borgia]], evidence that [[Rodrigo Borgia]] was also aware that Savonarola held the [[Piece of Eden]]. Learning that the Apple only held sway over the minds of Savonarola's nine lieutenants, with most of the city's populace simply controlled by fear, and that a direct assault would result in failure, Ezio decided to assassinate the nine, whilst [[La Volpe]] and [[Paola]] helped to arouse the districts and the people.
[[File:Florentine Fiasco 6.png|thumb|left|250px|Ezio and Machiavelli discussing the liberation plan]]
Ezio and Machiavelli passed into the [[Oltrarno District]] of the city and discovered the bodies of a contingent of soldiers bearing the emblem of the [[House of Borgia|Borgia]], indicating that [[Rodrigo Borgia]] was also aware Savonarola held the Apple.<ref name="Florentine Fiasco" />
 
Learning that the Apple only held sway over the minds of Savonarola's nine lieutenants, with most of the city's populace simply controlled by fear, Ezio elected to assassinate the nine men, whilst [[La Volpe]] and [[Paola]] helped incite the districts and the people.<ref name="Florentine Fiasco" />


===The Painter===
===The Painter===
{{Quote|My own self-doubt let him hold me as he did. I am sorry.|The Painter to Ezio before he met his end.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Quote|My own self-doubt let him hold me as he did. I am sorry.|The Painter's final words to Ezio.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Still life 2.png|thumb|200px|Ezio assassinates the painter]]
[[File:Still life 2.png|thumb|250px|Ezio assassinating the Painter]]
The first of Savonarola's lieutenants that Ezio decided to kill was the [[painter]], who was burning several piles of artwork behind the [[Palazzo Pitti]] in the Oltrarno District. As Ezio remained unseen and got closer, the man spoke of how, when he first became a painter, he thought he would become closer to God; however he found he was only deceived by the Devil. He told the crowd to burn all their pieces of artwork in fires. However, Ezio quickly surprised the painter and assassinated him with the [[hidden blade]]. As the painter died, he told Ezio he was sorry and that his actions were not his own.
The first of Savonarola's lieutenants that Ezio targeted was the [[Artist (Piagnone)| Painter]], who led a burning of piles of artwork behind the [[Palazzo Pitti]]. Unaware of Ezio's presence, the man spoke of how, when he first became a painter, he thought he would become closer to God. However, the Painter went on to say that he found he was only deceived by Satan.<ref name="Still Life">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Still Life]]</ref>
 
As he told the crowd to burn all their artwork, Ezio abruptly assassinated him with his [[Hidden Blade]]. With his last words, the Painter apologized to Ezio and claimed that his actions were not his own. Despite being pursued by [[guards]], Ezio escaped and La Volpe and Paola led the crowd away from the fires.<ref name="Still Life" />
 
===The Guard Captain===
{{Quote|Or was it that I tasted power and found myself intoxicated? I wish I had been strong.|The Guard Captain speaking to Ezio|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:The ranks 3.png|thumb|left|250px|Ezio assassinating the Guard Captain]]
Eventually, Ezio was able to locate the [[Guard captain (Piagnone)|Guard Captain]] at the [[Basilica of San Lorenzo|Basilica di San Lorenzo]]. Arriving in the courtyard and noticing no civilians around, the Guard Captain showed himself from the scaffolding above.<ref name="Climbing the Ranks">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Climbing the Ranks]]</ref>


===The Preacher===
Calling out to Ezio, he revealed that he had devised a trap. Ezio was promptly surrounded by dozens of guards and [[archers]]; however he was able to fight them off, climb the building, and assassinate the Guard Captain. As he died, the Captain claimed he was disgusted by his actions, and wished he had been stronger.<ref name="Climbing the Ranks" />
{{Quote|Not all of us required deception to be convinced. I already believe. All I said is true.|The Preacher confessing his belief in Savonarola's cause.|Assassin's Creed II}}
 
[[File:Doomsday 1.png|thumb|200px|left|A crowd gathers to hear the preacher]]
===The Nobleman===
The second lieutenant that Ezio hunted was the [[preacher]]. Finding him standing outside the [[Santo Spirito]] Church in Southern Florence, he addressed a crowd in front of the church, surrounded by [[guards]]. The preacher invoked that everyone must repent or they would go to hell. However, Ezio was able to close in on the preacher and assassinate him. As the man died, he claimed that he was not deceived by the Apple of Eden, and that his actions were his own. Ezio then fled to continue his hunt.
{{Dialogue2|Nobleman|I was a victim! It's not my fault!|Ezio|No. You made a choice.|He charmed me. With that... thing...|Ezio talking to the Nobleman before the latter's death.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Upward Mobility 2.png|thumb|right|250px|Ezio assassinating the Nobleman]]
The third lieutenant was a [[Nobleman (Piagnone)|Nobleman]], who Ezio located on top of the [[Mercato Vecchio]]. Upon seeing Ezio, the Nobleman fled towards Savonarola, shouting that Florence must be cured and claiming that Ezio would not interfere.<ref name="Upward Mobility">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Upward Mobility]]</ref>
 
Ezio pursued the nobleman over the rooftops and quickly assassinated him. As he died, the Nobleman stated that he was "charmed" by the Apple, though Ezio explained that he killed him regardless, for the people's benefit.<ref name="Upward Mobility" />
 
===The Priest===
{{Quote|I led my flock astray... It's just... I wanted so badly to believe...|The Priest confessing his failure.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Last rites 3.png|thumb|left|250px|Ezio assassinating the Priest]]
The fourth lieutenant was a [[Priest (Piagnone)|Priest]] praying atop the [[Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore]]. As the priest preached to the people in favor of Savonarola and his cause, Ezio silently climbed the church, dispatching the guards he encountered.<ref name="Last Rites">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Last Rites]]</ref>


===The Condottiero===
Reaching the top, Ezio stabbed the priest with his Hidden Blade. As he died, the priest admitted he accepted the illusion, wanting to believe in God so desperately.<ref name="Last Rites" />
{{Dialogue|Ezio|You wear a noble's clothes. How is it Savonarola charmed you?|Condottiero|Wealth and power do not ensure contentment. I wanted even more...|The Condottiero to Ezio before his death.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Arch Nemesis 2.png|thumb|200px|Ezio assassinates the Condottiero]]
The third lieutenant was a [[Condottiero]], who guarded and monitored passage across the [[Ponte Vecchio]]. He spoke of Savonarola's cause to the people below, and said that he wanted to lead the people into a new future, and that their resistance was futile. However, Ezio was able to sneak past the guards and eventually assassinate the Condottiero. As he died, Ezio asked how Savonarola was able to charm him. The Condottiero admitted he wanted wealth and power far beyond what he currently possessed.


===The Merchant===
===The Merchant===
{{Quote|Secure those crates! We can ill afford to let their contents fall into the wrong hands.|The merchant's orders to his crew.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Quote|We'll see just how tough the holdouts are when they're forced to go without food. If they want to eat, they'll accept Savonarola as their leader.|The Merchant describing his plan to starve those who oppose Savonarola.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Port Authority 2.png|thumb|left|200px|Ezio assassinates the merchant]]
[[File:Port Authority 2.png|thumb|right|250px|Ezio assassinating the Merchant]]
The fourth lieutenant was a [[Merchant (Savonarola's lieutenant)|merchant]], who Ezio found on a boat in the River Arno. The merchant had his guards load food supplies onto the ship, withholding it from the people, hoping they would submit to Savonarola. Ezio was able to sneak aboard the ship and evade the guards before reaching the merchant and assassinating him. In his dying words, the merchant showed regret, but admitted he agreed sometimes people must be told what to think, though felt guilty.
The fifth lieutenant was a [[Merchant (Piagnone)|Merchant]], who Ezio found on a boat in the Arno river. The merchant had his guards load food supplies onto the [[Ship|ship]], withholding it from the people in the hope that they would submit to Savonarola.<ref name="Port Authority">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Port Authority]]</ref>
 
Ezio was able to sneak aboard the ship and evade the guards before reaching the merchant and assassinating him. With his dying words, the merchant showed regret, but admitted he believed people must be told what to think sometimes.<ref name="Port Authority" />
 
===The Doctor===
{{Dialogue2|Doctor|You have spilled the blood of a healer.|Ezio|No. I have spilled the blood of a tyrant.|To command such power over the body, between this world and the next. It seems, I grew intoxicated.|The Doctor to Ezio prior to the former's death.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Surgical Strike 2.png|250px|thumb|left|Ezio aiming his Hidden Gun at the Doctor]]
The sixth lieutenant was the [[Doctor (Piagnone)|Doctor]], who was found in the [[Ospedale degli Innocenti]]. He was protected by several guards and offered free medical care to those who swore allegiance to Savonarola.<ref name="Surgical Strike">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Surgical Strike]]</ref>
 
Infiltrating the courtyard, Ezio avoided the guards' gaze and assassinated the Doctor. Before dying, the Doctor admitted to Ezio that he had been intoxicated by power.<ref name="Surgical Strike" />


===The Farmer===
===The Farmer===
{{Quote|Your orders are simple - keep watch over these fields and ensure no harm comes to the bundles of fieno (hay). It may seem a mundane task, but it's critical nonetheless!|The farmer's orders to his men.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Quote|Your orders are simple - keep watch over these fields and ensure no harm comes to the bundles of fieno (hay). It may seem a mundane task, but it's critical nonetheless!|The Farmer's orders to his men.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Hitting hay 2.png|thumb|200px|Ezio assassinates the farmer]]
[[File:Hitting hay 2.png|thumb|right|250px|Ezio assassinating the Farmer]]
The fifth lieutenant was a [[farmer]] in Florence's countryside. Arriving there and noticing the farmer, he ordered his men to protect the hay and continued to patrol the area. As he walked, the farmer spoke of how he withheld other farmers' provisions for their livestock, thereby cutting their source of income, and Florence's food supply, hoping they would submit to Savonarola. Using the hay bundles to his advantage and remaining hidden, Ezio was able to assassinate the farmer. As he died, Ezio interrogated him, questioning his actions. The farmer admitted that he did it in order to gain respect before passing on.
The seventh lieutenant was a [[Farmer (Piagnone)|Farmer]] in Florence's countryside. The Farmer ordered his men to protect the hay and continued to patrol the area with other guards. As he walked, the farmer spoke of how he withheld other farmers' provisions for their livestock, thereby cutting their source of income and Florence's food supply to force them to submit to Savonarola.<ref name="Hitting the Hay">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Hitting the Hay]]</ref>
 
Using the hay bundles to his advantage and remaining hidden, Ezio was able to assassinate the farmer. Ezio interrogated him about his actions, and the Farmer admitted he withheld provisions to gain respect from the people, asserting that something taken for granted can be of critical importance.<ref name="Hitting the Hay" />


===The Nobleman===
===The Condottiero===
{{Dialogue2|Nobleman|I was a victim! It's not my fault!|Ezio|No. You made a choice.|He charmed me. With that...thing...|Ezio talking to the Nobleman before death.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Dialogue|Ezio|You wear a noble's clothes. How is it Savonarola charmed you?|Condottiero|Wealth and power do not ensure contentment. I wanted even more...|The Condottiero explaining his desire for control.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Upward Mobility 2.png|thumb|left|200px|Ezio assassinates the nobleman]]
[[File:Arch Nemesis 2.png|thumb|left|250px|Ezio assassinating the Condottiero]]
The sixth lieutenant was a [[nobleman]]. Ezio soon located the nobleman on the rooftop in the Mercato Vecchio in central Florence. Upon his sighting of Ezio, the nobleman shouted that Florence must be cured and claimed that Ezio would not interfere. However, Ezio began to pursue the nobleman. Shouting for guards, the man started to run towards Savonarola to inform him of Ezio. However, Ezio was faster and assassinated him quickly. As he died, he claimed he was "charmed" by the Apple. Ezio explained that he killed him for the people's benefit before leaving.
The eighth lieutenant was the [[Condottiero (Piagnone)|Condottiero]], who guarded and monitored passage across the [[Ponte Vecchio]]. He spoke of Savonarola's cause to the people below and said he wanted to lead them into a new future, and that resistance was futile.<ref name="Arch Nemesis">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Arch Nemesis]]</ref>


===The Priest===
However, Ezio was able to navigate past the guards and eventually assassinate the Condottiero. Ezio questioned the dying Condottiero about how Savonarola was able to charm him, and the Condottiero admitted he wanted wealth and power far beyond what he currently possessed.<ref name="Arch Nemesis" />
{{Quote|I led my flock astray... It's just... I wanted so badly to believe...|The Priest confessing.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Last rites 3.png|thumb|200px|Ezio assassinates the priest]]
The seventh lieutenant was a [[Priest (Savonarola's lieutenant)|priest]]. Locating the priest on top of the [[Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore|Santa Maria del Fiore]] praying. As the priest preached to the people in favor of Savonarola and his cause, Ezio silently climbed the building, dispatching the guards he encountered. Reaching the top, Ezio silently stabbed the priest with his hidden blade. As he died, the priest admitted he accepted the illusion, wanting to believe in God so desperately. Ezio then claimed that everyone did before departing.


===The Captain Guard===
===The Preacher===
{{Quote|Or was it that I tasted power and found myself intoxicated? I wish I had been strong.|The captain guard to Ezio.|Assassin's Creed II}}
{{Quote|Not all of us required deception to be convinced. I already believe. All I said is true.|The Preacher confessing his belief in Savonarola's cause.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:The ranks 3.png|thumb|left|200px|Ezio kills the captain guard]]
[[File:Doomsday 2.png|thumb|250px|right|Ezio assassinating the Preacher]]
Eventually, Ezio was able to locate the [[Captain Guard|captain guard]] at the [[Basilica di San Lorenzo]]. Arriving in the courtyard and noticing no civilians were around, the captain guard revealed himself from the scaffolding above. Calling out to Ezio, he revealed he had devised a trap. Promptly Ezio was surrounded by dozens of guards and [[archers]]; however he was able to fight them off, climb the building and assassinate the captain guard. As he died, the captain was disgusted by his actions, wishing he was stronger.
The last of Savonarola's lieutenants Ezio hunted was the [[Preacher (Piagnone)|Preacher]], whom he located outside [[Santo Spirito]], surrounded by guards and addressing a crowd in front of the church. The preacher lectured that everyone need repent or they would go to Hell. Ezio was able to close in on the preacher and assassinate him; as the man died, he claimed that he was not deceived by the Apple of Eden, and that his actions were his own.<ref name="Doomsday">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Doomsday]]</ref>
{{-}}
==Savonarola's demise==
{{Quote|We don't need anyone to tell us what to do; not Savonarola, not the Medici. We are free to follow our own path. There are those who will take that freedom from us, and too many of you gladly give it... Choose your own way! Do not follow me, or anyone else.|Ezio's speech to the crowd at the Palazzo della Signoria.|Assassin's Creed II}}
[[File:Power to people 2.png|thumb|left|250px|The crowd gathering in front of the Palazzo Pitti]]
The citizens, rallied by Niccolò Machiavelli, La Volpe and Paola, massed in front of the Palazzo Pitti to confront Savonarola.<ref name="Power to the People">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Power to the People]]</ref>


===The Doctor===
Emerging from the Palazzo, Savonarola demanded to know why the mob had gathered and were not "cleansing themselves". Weakened by the loss of his lieutenants, Savonarola attempted to using the Apple's power to subdue the crowd. However, he was stopped as Ezio threw a [[Throwing knives|knife]] and injured his hand. As soon as the Apple fell from Savonarola's grip, the crowd carried him away.<ref name="Power to the People" />
{{Dialogue2|Doctor|You have spilled the blood of a healer.|Ezio|No. I have spilled the blood of a tyrant.|To command such power over the body, between this world and the next. It seems, I grew intoxicated.|The Doctor before he died.|Assassin's Creed II}}
The last of Savonarola's lieutenants that Ezio had to assassinate was the [[Doctor (Savonarola's lieutenant)|doctor]], who was found in a courtyard in central Florence. He was protected by many guards, and he offered free medical care to those who swore allegiance to Savonarola. Ezio infiltrated the courtyard, avoiding the guards' gaze. Sneaking up on him, the Doctor soon felt the sting of Ezio's blade and was put to rest. Before dying, he admitted to Ezio on his deathbed that he had been intoxicated by power.


==Savonarola's Demise==
Picking up the Apple, a Borgia [[Agile guards|guard]] attempted to flee with the artifact, but was subdued after a lengthy chase by Ezio. Ezio then headed to the [[Palazzo della Signoria]], where the crowd, now freed from the control of the Apple, were burning Savonarola at the stake.<ref name="Power to the People" />
{{Quote|We don't need anyone to tell us what to do; not Savonarola, not the Medici. We are free to follow our own path.|Ezio Auditore's speech.|Assassin's Creed II}}
The citizens rallied by Niccolò Machiavelli, La Volpe and Paola massed in front of the Palazzo Pitti, to confront Girolamo Savonarola. Savonarola confronted the enraged mob, demanding to know why they were not cleansing themselves. However, Savonarola's rage forced him to use the Apple's power, weakened by the loss of his lieutenants. Savonarola attempted to use the Apple to subdue the crowd, exclaiming that they would submit.


Ezio, however prevented Savonarola from using the artifact by throwing a [[Throwing knives|knife]] and injuring his hand. As soon as the artifact left Savonarola's grip, the crowd carried him away. A [[Agile guards|Borgia guard]] suddenly tried to steal the fallen artifact, only to be killed after a lengthy chase by Ezio. Ezio then discovered that the people, now freed from the grip of the Apple, were burning Savonarola at the stake outside the [[Palazzo della Signoria]]. While the crowd screamed in rage, Ezio concluded that no one should die in so much pain.
[[File:Mob justice 5.png|thumb|250px|Ezio addressing the crowd]]
Making his way through the crowd, Ezio lunged at Savonarola and assassinated the tyrannical monk with his Hidden Blade, sparing him from a slow and painful demise. With Savonarola finally dead, Ezio made a speech to the crowd, telling them that they were free to make their own choices, and directed them to choose their own path.<ref name="Mob Justice">''Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities'' – [[Mob Justice]]</ref>


[[File:Mob justice 5.png|thumb|200px|Ezio gives a speech to the crowd]]
As Ezio concluded his speech, he departed from the city with [[Mario Auditore]], Machiavelli, La Volpe and Paola, with the group heading to the [[Villa Auditore]] in [[Monteriggioni]].<ref name="Mob Justice" />
Making his way through the crowd, Ezio lunged at Savonarola, and mercifully assassinated the crazed monk with his hidden blade. With Savonarola dead at last, ending his tyranny, Ezio then made a speech, claiming that the citizens should be free to make their own choice, not to follow the Medici, Savonarola, or him, but to choose their own path. As Ezio concluded his speech, he departed from the city once again, with [[Mario Auditore]], Machiavelli, La Volpe, and Paola, ready to [[Confrontation in the Vatican|face his nemesis]].


==Aftermath==
==Aftermath==
{{Quote|There are those who will take that freedom from us, and too many of you gladly give it. But it is our ability to choose - whatever you think is true - that makes us human.|Ezio's proud speech towards the people.|Assassin's Creed II}}
With the Apple in the Assassins' possession and Savonarola's tyranny ended, the people of Florence could fully embrace the [[Renaissance]] movement. Following Savonarola's demise, the city politics remained in a state of disarray for several years, before [[Piero Soderini]] became Florence's effective ruler in 1502. The House of Medici would be restored in 1512. The Assassins also retrieved the last pages of the [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad's Codex|Codex]], which they would eventually assemble on the [[Villa Auditore#Mario's study|Codex Wall]] to locate the [[Vatican Vault|Vault]] and confront the [[Templars|Templar]] [[Grand Master of the Templar Order|Grand Master]], Rodrigo Borgia.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>
The Assassins secured the Apple once more, and Savonarola's tyranny ended, once again freeing the city of Florence, and allowing the people to fully embrace the Renaissance movement. The Assassins retrieved the last pages of the [[Codex]] which they would soon assemble on the [[Villa Auditore#Mario's study|Codex Wall]] to locate the [[Vatican Vault|Vault]] and soon, confront the last of their targets in Italy, Rodrigo Borgia.
 
== Behind the Scenes ==
As long as the player is in Sequence 13, Florence will be a battleground as they can find random skirmishes between Borgia Guards and Savonarola Guards – Savonarola will spawn with a Brute and a Seeker while Borgia will spawn with two Agiles.


==Reference==
==Appearances==
*''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' - [[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)]]
*''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' – ''[[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)|Bonfire of the Vanities]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Renaissance]]''
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'' {{Fb}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Identity]]'' {{Mdat}}
 
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{AC2}}
{{Timeline}}
{{Timeline}}
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II DLC]]
 
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II events]]
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[[Category:Timeline]]

Latest revision as of 00:36, 25 May 2026

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"You should be cleansing your homes. Cleansing your SELVES! There are bonfires to feed! Prayers to be said! Penance to be done!"
―Savonarola ordering Florentine citizens to return to their medieval lifestyles.[src]

The Bonfire of the Vanities was a political movement in Florence during the years 1497 and 1498 in which Girolamo Savonarola, an Italian priest of the Dominican Order, preached for Florentine civilians to return to medieval lifestyles.

Following the expulsion of Florence's former rulers, the Medici, Savonarola assumed control of the city after acquiring the Apple of Eden in 1488.[1]

Ascension to power[edit | edit source]

"It's not the city he's enthralled, but its leaders: men possessed of influence and power. They, in turn, oppress the citizens and ensure his will is done."
―Niccolò Machiavelli discussing Savonarola's new system of power.[src]
Ezio and Machiavelli discussing Savonarola

In the year 1497, the Assassin Ezio Auditore da Firenze returned to Florence to find it controlled by Savonarola and his nine lieutenants.[2]

Ezio met with Niccolò Machiavelli on one of the Arno bridges, and Machiavelli confirmed that Savonarola had taken control of Florence with the aid of the Apple of Eden. Eager to reclaim the Apple, Ezio declared that they should work on retrieving it, though Machiavelli rebuked him. Machiavelli then explained that Savonarola's control began to take shape a few weeks prior, when the once reviled man became one that people "worshiped".[2]

However, Machiavelli revealed that this was only part of Savonarola's tyranny, as Savonarola had taken control of city leaders who held influence over Florence's districts. These leaders in turn oppressed the people and ensured Savonarola's will was done.[2]

Assassination of Savonarola's lieutenants[edit | edit source]

"If we can silence his lieutenants and stir up discontent, he will be distracted and I will have a chance to strike."
―Ezio explaining his plan to assassinate Savonarola's lieutenants.[src]
Ezio and Machiavelli discussing the liberation plan

Ezio and Machiavelli passed into the Oltrarno District of the city and discovered the bodies of a contingent of soldiers bearing the emblem of the Borgia, indicating that Rodrigo Borgia was also aware Savonarola held the Apple.[2]

Learning that the Apple only held sway over the minds of Savonarola's nine lieutenants, with most of the city's populace simply controlled by fear, Ezio elected to assassinate the nine men, whilst La Volpe and Paola helped incite the districts and the people.[2]

The Painter[edit | edit source]

"My own self-doubt let him hold me as he did. I am sorry."
―The Painter's final words to Ezio.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Painter

The first of Savonarola's lieutenants that Ezio targeted was the Painter, who led a burning of piles of artwork behind the Palazzo Pitti. Unaware of Ezio's presence, the man spoke of how, when he first became a painter, he thought he would become closer to God. However, the Painter went on to say that he found he was only deceived by Satan.[3]

As he told the crowd to burn all their artwork, Ezio abruptly assassinated him with his Hidden Blade. With his last words, the Painter apologized to Ezio and claimed that his actions were not his own. Despite being pursued by guards, Ezio escaped and La Volpe and Paola led the crowd away from the fires.[3]

The Guard Captain[edit | edit source]

"Or was it that I tasted power and found myself intoxicated? I wish I had been strong."
―The Guard Captain speaking to Ezio[src]
Ezio assassinating the Guard Captain

Eventually, Ezio was able to locate the Guard Captain at the Basilica di San Lorenzo. Arriving in the courtyard and noticing no civilians around, the Guard Captain showed himself from the scaffolding above.[4]

Calling out to Ezio, he revealed that he had devised a trap. Ezio was promptly surrounded by dozens of guards and archers; however he was able to fight them off, climb the building, and assassinate the Guard Captain. As he died, the Captain claimed he was disgusted by his actions, and wished he had been stronger.[4]

The Nobleman[edit | edit source]

Nobleman: "I was a victim! It's not my fault!"
Ezio: "No. You made a choice."
Nobleman: "He charmed me. With that... thing..."
—Ezio talking to the Nobleman before the latter's death.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Nobleman

The third lieutenant was a Nobleman, who Ezio located on top of the Mercato Vecchio. Upon seeing Ezio, the Nobleman fled towards Savonarola, shouting that Florence must be cured and claiming that Ezio would not interfere.[5]

Ezio pursued the nobleman over the rooftops and quickly assassinated him. As he died, the Nobleman stated that he was "charmed" by the Apple, though Ezio explained that he killed him regardless, for the people's benefit.[5]

The Priest[edit | edit source]

"I led my flock astray... It's just... I wanted so badly to believe..."
―The Priest confessing his failure.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Priest

The fourth lieutenant was a Priest praying atop the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. As the priest preached to the people in favor of Savonarola and his cause, Ezio silently climbed the church, dispatching the guards he encountered.[6]

Reaching the top, Ezio stabbed the priest with his Hidden Blade. As he died, the priest admitted he accepted the illusion, wanting to believe in God so desperately.[6]

The Merchant[edit | edit source]

"We'll see just how tough the holdouts are when they're forced to go without food. If they want to eat, they'll accept Savonarola as their leader."
―The Merchant describing his plan to starve those who oppose Savonarola.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Merchant

The fifth lieutenant was a Merchant, who Ezio found on a boat in the Arno river. The merchant had his guards load food supplies onto the ship, withholding it from the people in the hope that they would submit to Savonarola.[7]

Ezio was able to sneak aboard the ship and evade the guards before reaching the merchant and assassinating him. With his dying words, the merchant showed regret, but admitted he believed people must be told what to think sometimes.[7]

The Doctor[edit | edit source]

Doctor: "You have spilled the blood of a healer."
Ezio: "No. I have spilled the blood of a tyrant."
Doctor: "To command such power over the body, between this world and the next. It seems, I grew intoxicated."
—The Doctor to Ezio prior to the former's death.[src]
Ezio aiming his Hidden Gun at the Doctor

The sixth lieutenant was the Doctor, who was found in the Ospedale degli Innocenti. He was protected by several guards and offered free medical care to those who swore allegiance to Savonarola.[8]

Infiltrating the courtyard, Ezio avoided the guards' gaze and assassinated the Doctor. Before dying, the Doctor admitted to Ezio that he had been intoxicated by power.[8]

The Farmer[edit | edit source]

"Your orders are simple - keep watch over these fields and ensure no harm comes to the bundles of fieno (hay). It may seem a mundane task, but it's critical nonetheless!"
―The Farmer's orders to his men.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Farmer

The seventh lieutenant was a Farmer in Florence's countryside. The Farmer ordered his men to protect the hay and continued to patrol the area with other guards. As he walked, the farmer spoke of how he withheld other farmers' provisions for their livestock, thereby cutting their source of income and Florence's food supply to force them to submit to Savonarola.[9]

Using the hay bundles to his advantage and remaining hidden, Ezio was able to assassinate the farmer. Ezio interrogated him about his actions, and the Farmer admitted he withheld provisions to gain respect from the people, asserting that something taken for granted can be of critical importance.[9]

The Condottiero[edit | edit source]

Ezio: "You wear a noble's clothes. How is it Savonarola charmed you?"
Condottiero: "Wealth and power do not ensure contentment. I wanted even more..."
—The Condottiero explaining his desire for control.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Condottiero

The eighth lieutenant was the Condottiero, who guarded and monitored passage across the Ponte Vecchio. He spoke of Savonarola's cause to the people below and said he wanted to lead them into a new future, and that resistance was futile.[10]

However, Ezio was able to navigate past the guards and eventually assassinate the Condottiero. Ezio questioned the dying Condottiero about how Savonarola was able to charm him, and the Condottiero admitted he wanted wealth and power far beyond what he currently possessed.[10]

The Preacher[edit | edit source]

"Not all of us required deception to be convinced. I already believe. All I said is true."
―The Preacher confessing his belief in Savonarola's cause.[src]
Ezio assassinating the Preacher

The last of Savonarola's lieutenants Ezio hunted was the Preacher, whom he located outside Santo Spirito, surrounded by guards and addressing a crowd in front of the church. The preacher lectured that everyone need repent or they would go to Hell. Ezio was able to close in on the preacher and assassinate him; as the man died, he claimed that he was not deceived by the Apple of Eden, and that his actions were his own.[11]

Savonarola's demise[edit | edit source]

"We don't need anyone to tell us what to do; not Savonarola, not the Medici. We are free to follow our own path. There are those who will take that freedom from us, and too many of you gladly give it... Choose your own way! Do not follow me, or anyone else."
―Ezio's speech to the crowd at the Palazzo della Signoria.[src]
The crowd gathering in front of the Palazzo Pitti

The citizens, rallied by Niccolò Machiavelli, La Volpe and Paola, massed in front of the Palazzo Pitti to confront Savonarola.[12]

Emerging from the Palazzo, Savonarola demanded to know why the mob had gathered and were not "cleansing themselves". Weakened by the loss of his lieutenants, Savonarola attempted to using the Apple's power to subdue the crowd. However, he was stopped as Ezio threw a knife and injured his hand. As soon as the Apple fell from Savonarola's grip, the crowd carried him away.[12]

Picking up the Apple, a Borgia guard attempted to flee with the artifact, but was subdued after a lengthy chase by Ezio. Ezio then headed to the Palazzo della Signoria, where the crowd, now freed from the control of the Apple, were burning Savonarola at the stake.[12]

Ezio addressing the crowd

Making his way through the crowd, Ezio lunged at Savonarola and assassinated the tyrannical monk with his Hidden Blade, sparing him from a slow and painful demise. With Savonarola finally dead, Ezio made a speech to the crowd, telling them that they were free to make their own choices, and directed them to choose their own path.[13]

As Ezio concluded his speech, he departed from the city with Mario Auditore, Machiavelli, La Volpe and Paola, with the group heading to the Villa Auditore in Monteriggioni.[13]

Aftermath[edit | edit source]

With the Apple in the Assassins' possession and Savonarola's tyranny ended, the people of Florence could fully embrace the Renaissance movement. Following Savonarola's demise, the city politics remained in a state of disarray for several years, before Piero Soderini became Florence's effective ruler in 1502. The House of Medici would be restored in 1512. The Assassins also retrieved the last pages of the Codex, which they would eventually assemble on the Codex Wall to locate the Vault and confront the Templar Grand Master, Rodrigo Borgia.[14]

Behind the Scenes[edit | edit source]

As long as the player is in Sequence 13, Florence will be a battleground as they can find random skirmishes between Borgia Guards and Savonarola Guards – Savonarola will spawn with a Brute and a Seeker while Borgia will spawn with two Agiles.

Appearances[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Identity – Database: Bonfire of Vanities
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Florentine Fiasco
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Still Life
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Climbing the Ranks
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Upward Mobility
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Last Rites
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Port Authority
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Surgical Strike
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Hitting the Hay
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Arch Nemesis
  11. ↑ Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Doomsday
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Power to the People
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 Assassin's Creed II – Bonfire of the Vanities – Mob Justice
  14. ↑ Assassin's Creed II

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