³ilm al- Ḥurūf - The Science of Letters: Magic and Talismans in the Medieval Islamic World
This class delves into the history and practice of using the Arabic letters as magical tools for talismanic protection. The class introduces the Arabic "alphabet" then gives a historical background of the use of the letters in astronomy/astrology, divination, and "magic". The class also delves into the works of Ahmad al-Būnī and teaches how to construct magic squares and how to construct protective talismans using the mystical properties of letters and numbers.
Teacher: Lord Nishigori Mitsumune
Class Length: 1.5 hours (1 hour class; 30 minutes discussion and practice)
An overview of Old Norse, its relation to modern Nordic languages, and the grammar and imagery of written works such that you can write sagas and poems in English, but using the texture and some loan words from Old Norse
This class explains how sounds are classified based on how they are made, and how the sounds of words can be transcribed in physical form. Includes an introduction to the International Phonetic Alphabet and its uses in recording and understanding pronunciation (especially of names).
Think you can't "write pretty?" Think again! Come learn about the development of various calligraphic "hands" (in modern terms, "fonts") through the centuries and get started on the basics of recreating them! Absolutely no experience required, and I don't care how messy your modern handwriting is - you CAN learn calligraphy! ;) Notes: (1) This class will focus mainly on European modes of writing, but we will touch briefly on Eastern and Middle Eastern styles in the history portion of the class. (2) The practical portion of the class will be taught from a right-handed perspective. Lefties are very welcome to attend - I would love to learn what works for you! (3) This class is suitable for older children if they are interested, but as it will be recorded, the camera must be kept off for any minors attending.
Teacher: THL Jessica of Osprey
Class Length: 1 hour
Required Supplies: None if you just want to watch and learn! If you want to practice, you'll need a writing implement with a flat/chisel edge and something to write on. (Examples: a calligraphy pen/marker + paper; a chisel-tip Sharpie + thick paper/cardboard; a chisel-tip dry erase marker + dry erase board; a highlighter + paper)
Japanese Poetry: The Art of Waka, Tanka, and Renga
This class will examine the Heian Period Japanese poetic art forms. This overview will include works of Waka, Tanka, and Renga poems and a look at the style, forms, and twists that make Japanese poetry different form other Asian poetry. This is also a discussion class so questions are welcome and encouraged.
La Linea Apertura - How to Flirt (Poorly) in Italian
Ciao Bella! Get ready for some history and hilarity as we look at language of flirting in Italian. Learn some anecdotes on the history of romance from various Italian city states in the sixteenth century and why Italian is known as the language of love! Come with an open mind and an open mouth... wait that sounded dirty.
Teacher: Signore Giovanni di Castellamare
Class Length: 1 hour
Required Supplies: A printed copy of the handout is useful
This class includes a survey of raman spectroscopic studies and 2 Persian writing manuals that have been translated into English. Covered in the discussion will be the raw materials and pigments used as well as gouache substitutes for newer scribes.
Mother Tongue: How the Language of Ancient Central Eurasian Herders Grew Into the World's Most Widely-Spoken Language Family
In this class, we'll discuss how the ancient Indo-European nomads spread their language, culture and technology across the Eurasian land-mass. We'll look how linguists, archaeologists, and anthropologists combined forces to reconstruct a language and culture that left behind no written evidence of its existence.
A method of copying images that is often used in embroidery, this class presents several findings in period that point to the use of the technique in period. This class will also go over the tools needed to incorporate the technique in a modern setting
What are those pretty pieces of paper the Crown waves around after someone gets an award in Court? Who makes them? What goes into making them? Come learn in Scribal 101! Part 'Art Appreciation/History' and part 'Art 101,' this class will cover the basics of scribal work in the SCA. If you've ever wanted to get into making scrolls OR if you have no artistic aspirations but want to know more about that award scroll you received, this is the class for you! We'll cover the elements of SCA scroll-making, historical inspirations/styles, and the necessary materials to get started. Note: This class is suitable for older children with an interest in art/art history, but as it will be recorded, the camera must be kept off for any minors attending.
The class will show four shading techniques for Illuminated Manuscripts: Lifting, Layering, Blending, & Reverse Color Wash. These are not the only methods, nor are you restricted to using only one of these techniques on any one Illuminated manuscript. Once you have tried many different styles, feel free to experiment and see what will work best for you.
Teacher: Master Raven Mayne, OL
Class Length: 1 hour
Required Supplies: Small container of water; two individual pieces of paper towel; at least one paintbrush; a pallet of some sort; gouache paint; paper