Mask Makers web into meditation

Sep 13, 2009   

Bring out your dead! These words will ring true once again in our current Middle Ages. The sights and sounds of the season will bring forth the return of The Plague Mask.


The timeline is set for Oct. 29th through Nov. 1st. at Ft. Gaines in Dauphin Island, Alabama (USA). Beware and Prepare for the Festival of the Dead, Origins of Halloween at Gatalop XXVI. Within the Kingdom of Meredies, the Barony of Osprey will pay tribute to an honorable tradition that will evoke memories from the past. Welcome to the Current Middle Ages!

Grim and foul were the years in which the European Bubonic Plague took its toll. While history shows that during the mid 1300's, death and despair were abundant, the need for a protective mask was certain. Makeshift at best, it was thought that a goggle-like leather mask would protect the doctor from direct contact with diseased patients. Designed with dual function, it also provided ample space within the elongated beak for aromatic herbs. This cleverly improvised concept was intended to mask the smell of death and decay. Though, one cannot be certain as to its effectiveness.

Today, in the Current Middle Ages, the Plague Doctor's spirit lives on and will be seen roaming the grounds during The Festival of the Dead. Heed the looming figure with hooded robe and beaked mask. Though, fear him not. His only purpose will be to recreate his way through the event. Complete with wagon and an abundant display of masks, the character will bring back the beaked silhouette through creative interpretation.

The draw bridge will open to the general populace. There within the fortress walls, Lady Rozani, garbed in Renaissance attire will welcome royalty and common folk, one and all. The Festival of the Dead Cart will be situated among the vendors' period pavillions. The period-like wagon is a modified version of a vendor's cart with 2 large wooden wheels. Adorned with paper mache character masks, it will reflect a touch of Old Italy.

Know ye good gentles that fairies, fiends or foes need not be plagued for lack of costume. Visitors are encouraged to make their purchases early on Friday and Saturday for the best masquerade selection and period garb. The gates will close to the general public at 5:00 P.M. However, the celebration will continue for the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA), our gracious hosts. See you there!

Please Note: Rozani Navas-Smith recreates the lifestyles of the Middle Ages for fun and is not an authority in this field. Specific information on the Plague Doctor mask is available on the internet.

Posted by  rozani