Medieval Do'ers Invade Plymouth

This past weekend Plymouth State University hosted it's 35^th annual Medieval and Renaissance Forum. The conference lasted all weekend and PSU became a hub where students, scholars and medieval enthusiasts were able to come to and learn more about the history and lifestyles of the eras.

The events began on the morning of Fri., Apr. 25 when participants in the various lectures and sessions gathered in the HUB's fireplace lounge for the opening ceremonies and a welcome by Karolym Kinane, the Director of the forum and the Faculty Advisor to PSU's Medieval Society.

After the opening ceremonies were over, the sessions for the weekend began. This year the sessions were largely diverse, with events and speakers covering subjects that ranged from Early Medieval Aesthetics, to Shakespeare, to chainmail workshops, and even such things Celtic-inspired contemporary tattoos.

"It would be impossible to choose a favorite." Said Kinane when asked which events she was most excited about. "One of the things that makes this conference so special is that outstanding undergraduates from a variety of institutions get to present their work alongside venerable, established scholars in the field."

The events were closed with a medieval feast at Heritage Hall. Where those with tickets were able to enjoy a meal and various forms of medieval-inspired entertainment.

The following tents and booths were erected on the Alumni Green in front of the HUB for Prince John's Medieval Festival. The festival, hosted by the English Department and the Department of Languages and Linguistics, along with the Medieval Society, was a place where students and enthusiasts alike came dressed in all kinds of costumes inspired by the Medieval and Renaissance era to participate in a day celebrating the lifestyles of the people that lived in those times. Here there were tents where passersby were able to buy articles of Medieval clothing and jewelry, listen to storytellers, eat all kinds of different food, and even enjoy a two dollar "Pummel a Pirate" game. Different singing groups and minstrels also provided entertainment for attendees of the festival.

"I love seeing all the people with all their garb on. "They're so much fun to talk to, there are so many vendors and it's such a great atmosphere. It's so much fun to be a part of." Said Rosiemarie Legge, a first year student and participant in the events.

"I'm a pirate historian by trade...I love all the pirates outside." Said John O'Grady, a senior Humanities major at PSU and member of the Medieval Society. "I love the cannons and the black powder. That's probably my favorite part...it's been awesome so far. It's great."

This year marks the last year the PSU will host the Medieval and Renaissance Forum, however it is the hope of the Medieval Society that the medieval festivities will be able to continue for years to come.