Kaamelott: An Application of the Art of War by Sun Tzu

Planification and Strategy

Sun Tzu remind us of an important point: planification. Following his teaching, Arthur has become a military strategy master. In the movie, the assault against Kaamelott was cautiously prepared. A whole plan was devised by the former king to take back his throne.

Deception and Strategy

“The Art of War” mentions this principle and its importance. In “Kaamelott: The First Chapter”, Arthur and his allies provoke Kaamelott’s fall by applying it. The whole attack is a trap, to force Lancelot to open the secret passage. Even in the series, the King made use of ruse to triumph. These strategies were also necessary because of Arthur’s incompetent knights.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Sun Tzu tells us adaptability is crucial. This is what Arthur does in the movie. Instead of forcing the Burgondes to rigorous military training, he adapts himself. He makes use of their gift in music, relying on their strength. The famous Chinese author advises for flexibility. Arthur, even weakened, knows how to adapt to situations. He uses his allies’ strengths, while considering their weaknesses.

Winning without fighting.

The most important point in Sun Tzu’s book is “to assure victory at the lowest cost”. This means no human nor material loss. When he infiltrates Kaamelott, Arthur goes in alone. He does not fight Lancelot’s counselors either. He knows them, and knows they won’t fight. It’s in Arthur’s nature to try to find pacifist solutions.

The Importance of Leadership

Arthur, even though he’s flawed, is a brilliant strategist and leader. He read every book Cesar wrote on military strategy. These books were said to be copied on the Chinese ones. Thanks to his culture, Arthur is able de make complex strategies. The importance of the leader is shown in “Kaamelott: The First Chapter”. The Burgondes’ attack only works when Arthur is leading. King Burgonde, even if he’s funny and delivers memorable lines (“Arthur, war is a salsify!”), isn’t a good leader. His troops are lost under his commands, and fail. Lancelot isn’t a good leader either, he doesn’t take any recommendations and lead the Kingdom to ruin.

To conclude

We can summarize Sun Tzu’s principles into one idea: victory by strategy. Arthur, raised the roman way, understands that. He applies the “Art of War” principles and shows that strategy surpasses almost always brute strength. “Kaamelott: The First Chapter” is an example in terms of cinematographic adaptation. It’s by looking beyond the first impression that we can understand that “Kaamelott” is more than just a comedy saga