Why Michael Kirkbride is Not Considered Part of the Elder Scrolls Lore
The Elder Scrolls series by Bethesda is a meticulously developed universe filled with rich lore, characters, and stories. However, navigating through the various in-game and out-of-game elements can be perplexing, especially when some fans want to include works by different authors. One such author, Michael Kirkbride, can sometimes be a point of contention. Generally, Michael Kirkbride’s work is not considered part of the Elder Scrolls lore, primarily because of the rules and guidelines Bethesda follows. This article explores why this is the case and clarifies the importance of canonical content in the series.
Michael Kirkbride’s In-Game Contributions
Michael Kirkbride, as a longtime employee of Bethesda, contributed significantly to the lore of the Elder Scrolls series, specifically with his work while at the company. His contributions include the Skyrim-related books, such as "The Companions," which are included in-game and clearly considered canon. However, the question arises when considering the post-Bethesda works.
Post-Bethesda Contributions and Canon Status
After leaving Bethesda, Michael Kirkbride continued to produce content related to the Elder Scrolls, but these contributions do not receive the same recognition as his in-game work. This disparity exists because of the strict guidelines Bethesda follows for what is considered canon lore. According to Bethesda’s policies, only content that is officially included in the mainline games or directly endorsed by the company can be considered part of the lore. Any fan-created mods or author-generated material falls outside this category, regardless of the quality or influence of the work.
Imperial Library Modding Community
Despite not being officially recognized by Bethesda, Michael Kirkbride’s unlicensed work has found a home in the Imperial Library modding community. This mod collection includes various texts and in-game artifacts from his works, allowing fans to incorporate these elements into their own Skyrim experiences.
Conclusion: The Importance of Canonical Lore
The distinction between what is considered canon and non-canon content is important for player enjoyment and continuity within the Elder Scrolls universe. For Bethesda, maintaining a clear distinction ensures that the lore is consistent and preserved for future games and expansions. This also helps avoid any confusion among players who wish to build a cohesive narrative around the series.
Michael Kirkbride remains a significant figure in the Elder Scrolls lore, even if his post-Bethesda works are not officially canon. Fans of the series can still appreciate and enjoy his contributions through the modding community, but it is essential to understand the rules that govern what is officially considered part of the lore.
In summary, Michael Kirkbride’s work outside of Bethesda includes unofficial content that, while valued by the community, does not meet the criteria for canonical recognition. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for gamers and lore enthusiasts in appreciating the rich history of the Elder Scrolls universe.