Renaissance reenactment ishistorical reenactment of events of theRenaissance period and the EuropeanAge of Exploration. In its broadest use, it encompasses reenactment of periods from the early 15th century through the mid-18th century. Reenactments of earlier events are commonly termedmedieval reenactment, while more recent events aremodern reenactment. Events and periods within Renaissance reenactment vary by region and nation, but include theEnglish Civil War in theUnited Kingdom, theEighty Years' War in theLow Countries (particularly theNetherlands),L'Escalade inSwitzerland, thePolish–Lithuanian Commonwealth ineastern Europe, and theearly colonial period in theUnited States andCanada.
Renaissance fairs, a primarily American phenomenon,[1] are, when historically based, considered part of Renaissance reenactment; however, some fairs favor entertainment over authenticity,[2]
Shapiro has been producing Renaissance fairs since 1972, and says the goal is a balance between history and revelry, favoring the latter. "We were so authentic back then it was almost painful. Clearly this is an entertainment vehicle."
Media related toRenaissance reenactments at Wikimedia Commons