During the 13th Century Russia was endangered by the invasion of the Teutonic Knights, the founders of Prussia. Under the leadership of Prince Alexander Nevsky the Russians unite and counter the German onslaught on the ice of Lake Peipus, and defeat them.

The commencement of the battle on the ice is subject of this excerpt. At first Nevsky and his aides are seen on a high rock, intercut with faces of the waiting soldiers and the preparations of the enemy camp. The Germans begin to advance, gathering speed. Battle is joined.