[MR] In defense of authenticity

[Tina Paxton]

Greetings Milords and Ladies,

I humbly seek to share my thoughts on the current discussion.  I have been
honored to be apart of the SCA for the past year.  I remember sewing my
first garb for my first, local, event.  I knew it wouldn't be "authentic"
and probably wouldn't pass the "10-foot rule" but it met the "attempt at
Medieval".  I remember my nervousness trying to remember to speak
"foresoothly" and to remember my "SCA Name" and answer to it.  I carefully
prepared myself, and my basket, so as not to include anything that would be
offensively mundane.  Total cost of that first garb and gear?  Less than
$20.

What makes the SCA special to me...what makes me want to play?  I found in
this society a love of learning, a love of sharing that knowledge, and a
love of chivalric ideals.  I was inspired and continue to be inspired by the
wealth of knowledge I find in the people I meet.  I am awed and humbled by
their eagerness to teach and encourage.

What I don't understand is an attitude of "I want to play the game but I
don't want to be bothered with any level of authenticity or "look".  If one
wants to fight but doesn't want to bother with a minimal level of "the
look", why bother with fighting in the SCA?

I also don't understand something else someone mentioned.  I read a post
stating that there are people with unregistered heraldic displays at events.
Isn't that also against the spirit of the SCA?  "In period" to display
heraldry one has not gained the right too was a gross wrong...a most
unchivalric act. (At least, that is my understanding.)  Why then, are such
displays allowed in the SCA?  I have designed what I would like to be my
device but must wait for funds to begin the registration process.  I would
not presume to display the device -- even knowing it isn't in conflict --
until it is official.  It's part of the game.

Will my garb ever be perfectly authentic?  No.  Doubtful that it will ever
be even nearly authentic.  But, it will improve because I feel that to
improve my knowledge and my skills is part of the ideals of the organization
I've joined.  I would hope that others would feel the same obligation.
Until a few posts on how cheaply armor can be fabricated per posted, I would
have bought the idea that plastic and tennis shoes are due to costs.
Obviously, armor can be had rather cheaply.  I suspect that there are those
who can help the less skilled to fabricate the armor right in your local
group.  As my own sewing skills improve, I'm thinking I'll adopt myself a
fighter since I don't have a lord to worry about clothing.  So, I think
there are easy and inexpensive solutions to any obstacle.  I find simply
asking gets a great response!

Well, I have probably said way too much and perhaps stumbled over a few
feet.  I humbly apologize for any toes I've trampled.

YIS,


Cristiane de Paxtoun
MKA Tina Paxton
Shire of Seareach
Apprentice, Companions of the Silver Spindle
Atlantian Embroiderer's Guild
Keepers of the Clewe