Historical reenactment

Historical reenactment is an activity in which participants recreate some aspects of a historical event or period. It may be a narrowly-defined time period, such as a specific war or other event, or it may be more broadly defined.

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Activities related to "reenactment" are not new; there were tournaments in the Middle Ages which would have Roman or other earlier themes, and the Victorians recreated medieval furnishings, such as tapestries. However, historical reenactment as a serious pursuit of practical historical interest, beyond mere "wash-and-wear wizardry" (re-inventing history as an entertainment to suit contemporary convenience or sensibilities), seems to be an invention of the 20th century.

Related Topics:
Tournaments - Middle Ages - Victorian

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The term living history describes attempts to bring history to life, either for an audience, or for the participants themselves. The primary distinction between reenactment and a period dramatic performance is the degree of immersion and the amount of improvisation.

Related Topics:
Living history - Improvisation

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