Blending Past & Present: Inspiring Knowledge – An Illuminating Update

Hey there! Remember the story I shared with you about my visit to the Oakview indoor mall in May 2019. It made me ponder how historical reenactors and scribes seek knowledge and inspiration using both old and new research methods.

The story goes: I spotted a woman in an electric cart, completely engrossed in a book in the hall outside the kids’ jewelry store. At first, I thought she was waiting for her granddaughter. Bringing a book along was a clever way to pass the time, reminding me of similar moments with my daughter in the mall. Nowadays, I store all my reading materials on my cell phone.

This led me to reflect on the diverse ways we use to seek information in the SCA. While I’ve discussed finding scribal inspiration online and how research has evolved, it’s important to remember that our exploration goes beyond the digital realm.

Exploring Different Paths to Knowledge: When delving into recreating unique items, finding a balance between new and old school research methods is important. When venturing into uncharted territory to recreate truly unique and historically accurate items, the old school approach often leads us to archaeological journals or doctoral theses. It takes us to university libraries and inter-library book loans, where physical presence may be required.

There’s something special about immersing yourself in the pages of historical texts feeling the tangible connection to the past. While some of these resources may be available online, many remain tucked away in the basements of college libraries. The old school method now involves accessing journal articles on platforms like Google Scholar, Fordham University’s Medieval Internet History Sourcebook and JSTOR.

The new school involves using digitized artifact images. Those online resources offer a wealth of insights to recreate SCA artifacts and award scrolls. Now those of us in the United States can see items located overseas. And we embrace their help wholeheartedly.

But there’s even more! In today’s world, there’s an exciting addition to our research toolbox: Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI can provide even reenactors with valuable insights that would be difficult to discover on our own. It’s a bit like having a research assistant right at our fingertips! I understand if AI gives people the heebie-jeebies. It did me too until I realized my teenage grandson used it. Then I tried it for myself.

AI isn’t taking over the world. It’s here to lend a helping hand. You’re still the one in charge, making the creative decisions and wielding the pen or brush. You still use your own historical expertise and artistic flair. You tweak the AI settings and make it work your way. Customization is the key!

AI is not a big scary monster; it’s a helpful tool that will make your life easier. Take it at your own pace, start with small tasks, and gradually explore its powers. It’s all part of a grand adventure.

If you do feel a bit lost, fear not! Often you can just ask AI what to do, which seems funny to me. There’s also friendly people out there ready to help. Maybe even a fellow SCAdian who’s already dipped their quill in the AI inkwell.

As we navigate the realm of historical research, let’s strike a harmonious balance between embracing the power of AI and immersing ourselves in the treasure troves of knowledge held within university libraries. By blending the old and the really new, we can unlock elements of understanding for our historical reenactment adventures.

So, let’s embrace the AI revolution. Explore, create, and unleash our recreation and scribal magic with the help of a new trusty sidekick. We’ll conquer it with style, historical accuracy, and a healthy dose of humor.