Re-enactment: Difference between revisions

From Cunnan
Jump to navigationJump to search
mNo edit summary
mNo edit summary
Line 5: Line 5:
The latter two are old terms used to describe reenactment groups or societies that recreate [[ancient]] and [[medieval]] [[combat]] using, clearly enough, metal [[weapon]]s. This distinguishes them from groups such as the [[SCA]] which uses [[rattan]] and most [[live roleplaying]] groups which tend to use some sort of padded weapon. This term is falling into disfavour amongst reenactment groups due to its inference that the only activity available in these groups is combat, and thus is considered by some to be derogatory.
The latter two are old terms used to describe reenactment groups or societies that recreate [[ancient]] and [[medieval]] [[combat]] using, clearly enough, metal [[weapon]]s. This distinguishes them from groups such as the [[SCA]] which uses [[rattan]] and most [[live roleplaying]] groups which tend to use some sort of padded weapon. This term is falling into disfavour amongst reenactment groups due to its inference that the only activity available in these groups is combat, and thus is considered by some to be derogatory.


The combat rules often require great care with respect to the speed, placement and strength of each blow due to the danger involved in using metal. Whether this gives a more or less accurate combat simulation than, eg. [[rattan]] weapons is an open debate. Metal certainly tends to look and sound better!
The combat rules often require great care with respect to the speed, placement and strength of each blow due to the danger involved in using metal. Whether this gives a more or less accurate combat simulation than, eg. [[rattan]] weapons is an open debate. Proponents of metal weapons combat argue that metal weapons tend look and sound better, whereas supporters of SCA-style claim combat with rattan weapons is more intense and realistic, with fewer concerns about accidental injury. Despite this debate, there is actually considerable crossover between the metal weapons and SCA subcultures.
==Variations==
==Variations==
In the [[UK]] reenactment society [[event]]s are primarily a [[battle]] reenactment with a [[living history]] encampment also present. These events are usually open to the public. The [[US]] seems to follow a similar pattern.
In the [[UK]] reenactment society [[event]]s are primarily a [[battle]] reenactment with a [[living history]] encampment also present. These events are usually open to the public. The [[US]] seems to follow a similar pattern.
[[Australia]]n reenactment groups follow a slightly different pattern.
[[Australia]]n reenactment groups follow a slightly different pattern: Events are usually closed to the public and run primarily for the reenactor. The event might be for a single group, a group and a selection of others or it might be open to all.

Events are usually closed to the public and run primarily for the reenactor. The event might be for a single group, a group and a selection of others or it might be open to all.
Displays are specifically for the public. There are some larger displays now that incorporate multiple groups, but for the most part they are usually run by just one group (two if they are closely linked).
Displays are specifically for the public. There are some larger displays now that incorporate multiple groups, but for the most part they are usually run by just one group (two if they are closely linked).

Revision as of 09:37, 26 June 2008

Re-enactment often refers to non-SCA recreationists that engage in a portrayal that is fairly narrow in time frame and location. This portrayal is usually more homogenous in theme than groups with a wider period. Reenactment groups usually have a minimum standard of equipment and clothing. These are usually not too stringent and new people are able to borrow equipment until they acquire their own and are given support by existing members in meeting these standards.

Other terms used to describe these groups include living history (particularly if the portrayal is very accurate), medievalists, live steel (in America) and metal weapons groups (in Australia).

The latter two are old terms used to describe reenactment groups or societies that recreate ancient and medieval combat using, clearly enough, metal weapons. This distinguishes them from groups such as the SCA which uses rattan and most live roleplaying groups which tend to use some sort of padded weapon. This term is falling into disfavour amongst reenactment groups due to its inference that the only activity available in these groups is combat, and thus is considered by some to be derogatory.

The combat rules often require great care with respect to the speed, placement and strength of each blow due to the danger involved in using metal. Whether this gives a more or less accurate combat simulation than, eg. rattan weapons is an open debate. Proponents of metal weapons combat argue that metal weapons tend look and sound better, whereas supporters of SCA-style claim combat with rattan weapons is more intense and realistic, with fewer concerns about accidental injury. Despite this debate, there is actually considerable crossover between the metal weapons and SCA subcultures.

Variations

In the UK reenactment society events are primarily a battle reenactment with a living history encampment also present. These events are usually open to the public. The US seems to follow a similar pattern.

Australian reenactment groups follow a slightly different pattern: Events are usually closed to the public and run primarily for the reenactor. The event might be for a single group, a group and a selection of others or it might be open to all.

Displays are specifically for the public. There are some larger displays now that incorporate multiple groups, but for the most part they are usually run by just one group (two if they are closely linked).

Example groups

United Kingdom

  • The English Civil War Society
  • Far Isles, The Company of the Motley Wolf
  • The Medieval Siege Society
  • The Sealed Knot
  • The Vikings
  • York City Levy

Australia

Internal Links