From Novice to Laurel: the Pathway to Acknowledgment in the SCA

Becoming a Laurel in the SCA isn’t something that happens overnight. How long does it take, you ask? Well, that’s a bit of a journey with no set timeline. In the world of medieval reenactment, meeting the peerage standard for all its kingdoms can be quite the quest.

When I started in the Kingdom of Calontir back in 1991, the scene bustled with activity. Many skilled teachers were eager to guide newcomers. Despite this, it took a while for me to get hooked on illumination. It wasn’t until a few years later that I really started to find my path.

At first, I stumbled along on my own, not knowing that the Calontir Scribes’ Guild welcomed anyone with an interest. Eventually, I became an apprentice. My Laurel appreciated calligraphy and illumination (C & I) but wasn’t an expert. This was perfectly fine. The role of a Laurel focuses more on teaching you how to be a peer. It is less about mastering the craft. So, I learned C & I independently or through various R.U.S.H. classes. From the time I joined to when I was elevated to the Order of the Laurel, it took 19 years. The timeline can vary greatly depending on personal choices, locations, learning opportunities, kingdom level participation and the additonal skills you learn.

Why Does It Take So Long?
First, you need to develop the necessary skills. No skill, no peerage. Even if you’re naturally talented and capable of creating Laurel-level art from day one. You still need time. You need to develop the non-practical abilities of a peer. It’s about more than just the craft. You need to build both a wide and deep body of work and, crucially, gain the trust of the current Laurels in your kingdom.

Trust is vital because as a Laurel, you’d be expected to lead and set an example. The current peers need to see you handle pressure situations with grace. Even if you know everything, it takes time for the community to recognize this. Some skills and qualities can only be demonstrated in real-life situations, and these opportunities do not come often.

The Social Tests
Some of the toughest tests occur in the social sphere. What do you do when a new member sits on the throne? Or when a Knight drinks a can of Budweiser at a dry site? How about when a local herald uses their position to harass new members? And what if you’re truly insulted?

How you solve these problems is often more important than the solutions themselves. Peers are the keepers of the SCA community. You need to find appropriate means and ends to handle tricky situations. There’s no “litmus test” for this; peers need to see you in action to believe in your capabilities.

Getting Involved
This doesn’t mean you should go around meddling in everyone’s business. But, it’s one reason to take on various jobs and be actively involved. Take small roles like becoming a local Minister of Arts, Seneschal, or steward an event. Judge entries at a kingdom art competition. Do you get frustrated that the entry didn’t use period appropriate material or offer other options with a smile? Service roles put you in situations where you can learn and prepare for greater challenges. Plus, there are usually plenty of people around to offer advice.

Building Trust
It takes time for peers and the broader populace to get to know and trust you. Moving from kingdom to kingdom can set you back, as you lose the trust you’ve built up. Standing down because you had a baby or orther family happen is common. If a peerage is important to you, consider how the SCA balances with other aspects of your life. Comparing these elements to find happiness is perfectly normal.

Your Thoughts?
Have you had experiences related to the journey of becoming a peer? Is there something I missed on this topic? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please share them in the comments below.