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We all know that re-enactors are out there – and for years they have been used as “extras” in documentaries on historical subjects.
This was borne out to me forcibly whilst watching a series on the History Channel – “The Roman War Machine” – which looked at the history of Rome and it’s army. The first thing that struck me was the large number of re-enactors used – it would seem that most of the English Roman re-enactors were used, as well as some of the other dark age groups as well. And they all looked great! The second – and more important (to me) – was that the Re-Enactors were given the opportunity to speak “in persona” about the lifestyle, training and equipment of a Roman soldier. This was an excellent series, by the way, and I would urge all those who have an interest in Roman history to see it. More to the point – I would urge all re-enactors to watch it. To learn from these re-enactors on how to present themselves in their persona (or time period) and to give information in a concise and informative manner. Information was given by re-enactors on the training and selection of Roman soldiers, the ranks in the army, and how the camp was set up each night. They discussed the reasons and use of the arms and armour, and the “little things” that made up being a soldier in that time. It showed re-enactors not just as amateurs who go out and hit each other – but as people who do a lot of serious research into their hobby. People who have a knowledge that is just as valid as the archaeologists and other experts in the field. And people who have a genuine passion for their period in history. It made me realise that I had a lot of work to do to become just as knowledgeable as they about my preferred time period (which – by the way – has now become firmly focused on the period between 1500-1700 with a distinct leaning towards the Renaissance). I realise that if I am to be serious about being a re-enactor, it is not just enough that I know some aspects of my chosen lifestyle. I should do research – enough research that I could live the lifestyle I choose to re-enact. This realisation comes about as a call recently went out about a new Civil War epic being planned in Hollywood (admittedly, the perpetrator of some of the absolute worst misnomers about history) and that wanted re-enactors to assist. Go To Page: 1 2
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