The Allure of the Bash: How Medieval Fairs Offer Connection in a Lonely Age
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AustraliaS medieval and renaissance fairs are experiencing a surge in popularity, offering a surprising antidote to modern isolation and a space to forge identity thru shared experience. From the thrill of a shield bash – described by one participant as simply “feel[ing] good” – to the intricate world of jousting and roleplay, these events provide a unique sense of belonging and purpose for a diverse community.
For nearly a decade, observers have been immersed in the world of knights, rogues, and wizards, not for ancient accuracy, but to understand the stories and characters people create to navigate a challenging world. This isn’t about escaping reality, but about constructing meaningful narratives in an era defined by loneliness and the search for self. As one enthusiast put it, “If life is one long role play a
Tamsen, a jouster preparing for a bout, described the experience as akin to a “local footy club,” emphasizing the strong sense of community within the sport. Her journey into jousting began with family visits to local festivals and culminated in a direct message to champion jouster sir Andrew McKinnon, requesting training.
A Network of Companies and Communities
Lady Tamsen’s story highlights the extensive network of jousting groups and medieval enthusiast organizations across australia. She is part of The Company of the Hound, based in Tarago, New South Wales, alongside groups like the company of the Black Spur in Victoria, The Company of the Griffin in Queensland, and The Gray Company from Perth. These “companies” foster intimate communities within the larger medieval fair landscape, offering a sense of fellowship and shared identity.
“I am entirely dependent on my squire,” Tamsen laughed, a sentiment echoed by her squire, who playfully described Tamsen as “a big metal toddler.” This dynamic illustrates the strong bonds formed within these groups, a sisterhood built on trust and mutual support.
Beyond Re-enactment: forging Identity and Connection
The appeal of these fairs extends beyond historical re-enactment. They offer a space for individuals to explore and express their identities, often finding solace and belonging in roles that resonate with their inner selves. One individual, encountered in New York, declared, “I have always known I am a dragon. my dragon self is my true self, not … whatever this is.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking authentic expression in a world that often demands conformity.
This search for identity is further fueled by the unique traditions that develop within these communities. Brendan Crawford,a craftsman who creates bespoke wooden swords at Kryal Castle,reminisced about past events like “naughty Night,” where participants playfully pelted a knight in the pillory with sponge stones. These traditions, while sometimes unconventional, contribute to the unique character and sense of fun that define the scene.
A Response to Modern Isolation
As Australia grapples with a growing loneliness epidemic, medieval fairs offer a tangible alternative to the atomization of modern life. These events provide opportunities for face-to-face interaction, shared experiences, and the formation of genuine connections. Many young people,especially those from marginalized communities,have found regeneration and a sense of purpose through participation in these re-enactments.
Musician and artist Elise Josephine shared her experience joining the community as a depressed university student, noting that “Everyone welcomed me with the joke that ‘It’s cheaper than therapy.'” She discovered that embracing the playful and immersive nature of the hobby was key to unlocking its benefits,learning to reject the pressure to be a “main character” and finding fulfillment in supporting roles. “Sometimes there really isn’t anything as good as getting a large sword and pelting some good friends,” she added.
The Victorian Medieval festival will take over Kryal Castle on November 22 and 23, offering a glimpse into this thriving subculture and the powerful connections it fosters. these fairs are not simply about recreating the past; they are about building communities and forging identities in the present, offering a vital sense of belonging in an increasingly disconnected world.
