Glossary
Æthelmearc -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (in the US): West Virginia,
western Pennsylvania, and western New York. More details about this Kingdom can
be found at their website: Æthelmearc.
"Æthelmearc is Anglo-Saxon for "noble
borderland." Æthel=noble, Mearc=march or borderland. We are, of course,
the borderland between the East and Middle Kingdoms, and the site of the Pennsic
War battlefields lies within our lands. The "Æ" is actually one
character, called an "aesch," that does not always translate via
email. On your computer, if you hold down the Alt key and type 146 on the
numeric keypad, you should get the correct character Æ." -- Baroness
Arianna of Wynthrope, OP, OL [From Hirsch: this tip will work on a Windows
machine, but may not work the same on a MacIntosh or Linux based machine ...]
Alphabet Soup -- When a person has been in the SCA for some time and is actively involved in what the organization does, they are likely to be rewarded for service, and such (see Award). Many of the awards granted have acronyms, such as "OL" for "Order of the Laurel", and so on. A person who has been quite active can accumulate a few of these, and is entitled, if they wish, to place them after their name. This accumulation of acronyms is often called Alphabet Soup.
Anachronism -- Anything out of its proper time, from the Greek ana, meaning backwards or reversed, and khronizein, meaning to belong to a particular time.
Anno Societatis/A.S. -- The dating system used in the S.C.A. All dates are counted from May 1st, 1966, and the year is shown in Roman Numerals. ("Anno Societatis" is basically "In the Year of the Society".) May 1, 1966 was May 1, A.S. I, and dates move forward from there.
Ansteorra -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Oklahoma and Texas, except for a part of Texas in the Mountain time zone. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: Ansteorra. "Ansteorra is Old English for "peerless" or "unique star". It came from the meeting at the Regional Colleqium for the Formation of a Principality 12 - 14 March 1977." -- Hans Durrmast Von Der Wanderlust
An Tir -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions of the US: Oregon, Washington, the northern tip of Idaho, Canada: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: An Tir.
Apprentice -- A student who has been accepted by a Master or Mistress of the Laurel or of the Pelican for training (see also Protégé).
Arms (Device) -- The heraldic emblem that identifies a person or entity. Displaying arms is a right granted by the King and Queen and (see Award of Arms) subject to approval by the Kingdom college of Heralds and the SCA College of Arms.
Armor -- Armor is worn to protect the body of a fighter. The restrictions on what is required to be worn is defined by a combination of tradition, and trial and error (someone getting hurt) over many years. There is a minimum set of requirements for armor that must be met for a fighter to be approved to fight in a tournament or war; and it varies depending on whether the fighter is a "heavy" fighter, "rapier" fighter, or a "light" fighter. For details, check with the Marshal of your Kingdom ...
Artemisia -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Utah, Southern Idaho, Montana, and west of the continental divide of Colorado and Wyoming. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: Artemisia. "The Kingdom name is taken from the Latin term for sagebrush - Artemisia Tridentata. The Silver Sage is a very common plant throughout our Kingdom, and has provided much inspiration in terms of our awards, titles and newsletter names." -- Shauna of Carrick Point
Arts, Minister of -- The Minister of the Arts is an officer of the SCA whose job is to foster the arts in whatever means he or she can. This is often done through competitions and arts displays. The Minister of the Arts often works closely with the Minister of Sciences, and in some Kingdoms these two offices are combined into one ... The person holding the office may prefer to be called "Master/Mistress of Arts" as their job title ...
A.S. -- See Anno Societatis.
Atenveldt -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Arizona, Utah, and a small bit of California. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: Atenveldt. "The name 'Atenvel(d)t' was chosen. The name came from the combination of an Egyptian sun god, known as Aton, and the German word for land." -- Arthur of Lockhaven, from Atenveldt ... As I Remember It (citation brought to my attention by Mark Welch). Historical Note: Atenveldt was the first Barony of the SCA (and the West Kingdom) -- it was founded November of 1969 (AS IV). It became a Principality of the West in February of 1970 (AS IV), and rose to Kingdom status January 16, 1971 (AS V). They were the first Barony and the first Principality in the SCA.
Atlantia -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Maryland, Virginia, North and South Carolina, plus a piece of Georgia, minus a piece of Virginia
Authorized -- An individual who has been formally recognized as trained to an adequate level of safety in a combat or combat-related activity (i.e., an "authorized fighter", or "I've been authorized!").
Autocrat -- The individual in charge of a specific event. This person is often an unsung hero, who works hard to obtain a site, work out all of the details necessary to use the site (getting privies, etc.,), and more.
Award -- The Royalty of the SCA may grant a variety of awards to those that they find worthy. This award structure ranges from awards that grant arms (armigerous awards) to those that do not (non-armigerous awards). Most awards are granted at the whim of the Royalty, although many are designed to reward specific skills, behavior, etc. However, the Royalty are busy people, and cannot possibly know everyone in their Principality or Kingdom. It is helpful if you feel someone is deserving of reward that you write a letter of recommendation ... anyone can do it, for any award (in other words, you don't have to have the award yourself to recommend someone for that award) ...
Award of Arms -- This award grants the right to 'bear arms' in the SCA. Don't let the terminology fool you, anyone may register a 'device' with the SCA's College of Arms, but until an Award of Arms (or award that grants such with it) is granted to an individual, what you display is a 'device', not a Coat of Arms. It is a minor technical difference, but ... The award also grants the title of Lord or Lady, and there are a variety of Title Language Equivalents that can be used for those who wish to use a specific language for their persona. Historical Note: The first Awards of Arms in the SCA were granted at Twelfth Night, AS III (1969), by King Caradoc ap Cador (West Kingdom).
Badge -- An armorial emblem used to mark your belongings or to denote a household or other organization (guild, etc.) within the SCA. It is usually simpler (fewer items/colors on the badge) than a device (or arms) unless your device is extremely simple.
Baldric -- This is a belt (leather, fabric, whatever) worn from one shoulder to the hip. Baldrics serve many purposes: they can be used to hold a sword (rather than hanging a sword from one's belt); they can be used to note an officer (specific colors/badges) -- these are usually fabric; they can be used as decoration, and a white baldric is reserved specifically for Masters of Arms.
Banner -- This is a means of displaying one's device or coat of arms (or badge) on fabric. There are many styles that are period in form. One style commonly in use that is not period in form is a 'heater shape' (shield shaped) banner. Instead, it is suggested that you use a rectangular shape, and if you really want to place your arms on a shield, do so, placing the shield-shape on the rectangle -- that is more period in form and style. Banners are a great way to add pageantry to the SCA, and add to the medieval atmosphere of events.
Bard -- This term can be confusing, as it is sometimes used as a title (as in "Bard of the Mists"), and some folk call themselves "Bards". A bard is a person who participates in bardic circles, sings, tells stories, recites poetry, etc.
Bardic Circle -- A gathering where the major activity is the exchange of songs and stories in a medieval style. Often done around a campfire at camping events.
Baron/Baroness (Court) -- The title of Court Baron/ess is granted at the whim of the Royalty, and carries the title of Baron or Baroness.
Baron/Baroness (Landed) -- A 'Landed' Baron or Baroness is the ceremonial head of a Barony. They are called Baron (or Baroness) of name-of-Barony. They receive this title from the hands of the Crown. There is no specific length of term in office, this is determined by each specific Barony. A landed Baron and/or Baroness is required to swear fealty to the Crown for the lands held by them.
Barony -- A Barony is a branch within the SCA -- an official organization. A Barony must have a Baron and/or Baroness (see above), as well as fit within specific guidelines defined in the SCA's Corpora and By-Laws for the size and activity levels of the organization. A Barony may contain within it's borders smaller branches, such as Shires, Cantons, and others, but it is not required that they do so. A Province has the same requirements as a Barony, but does not have the ceremonial head(s) of a Baron and/or Baroness. .
Belted Fighter -- A belted fighter is a member of the Order of Chivalry, the term refers to the white belt worn by a Knight or the baldric worn by a Master of Arms.
BOD/Board of Directors -- The Board of Directors are the people who deal with the mundane (non-medieval) aspects of running the organization. The Board of Directors has their own web site: SCA Board of Directors
Branch -- A branch is an official SCA organization, which is regional, and must have specific officers (the requirements vary depending on the size of the branch). It may be based on a city, a University (see College), or a larger area. In the United States most Kingdoms are defined by the state borders (or close), but may and usually do, include multiple states.
Caid -- (pronounced to the best of my
understanding: Ky-eed or Ka-eed, depending on who you ask). A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Southern California,
Greater Las Vegas Area and Hawaii. More details about this Kingdom can be found
at their website: Caid.
Historical Note: Regarding the name of Caid,
this information comes from the Annotated History, by William the Lucky, who was
Kingdom Seneschal of the West (which Caid was a part of) at the time:
"There were four very proud, and very independent, baronies in the south of
the kingdom. When An Tir became a Principality, nothing would do but they become
one also. First (and aliments last) problem agree on a name. Each barony had a
suggestion ... and would accept nothing else -- certainly not any suggestion
from one of the other baronies. Lack of agreement continued for months. Some
people have done very well in official positions by being endlessly patient with
idiocy -- I'm afraid I just don't have endless patience. So I wrote to the four
baronies suggesting that they agree on a name by a deadline that was only a
couple of weeks out. Otherwise, as Steve noted, "since the Principality in
the north of the Kingdom is An Tir, the one in the south of the Kingdom will be
Pos-Tir." The name Caid, agreed to by all four baronies, arrived by return
mail. Almost as fascinating is the official Caidian history of how the name was
chosen. Unsurprisingly, it does not actually mention any exterior influence on
the decision process. It does give a really elegant explanation for the name (an
acronym of the names of the four baronies); clearly someone was a dab hand with
a foreign language dictionary collection.”
Also note that The Page from June, AS IX
(1974) states in the official event copy about the first Coronet Tournament:
"At the recent Tourney of Union, the citizens of the Principality decided
pro tempore on the name Caid, a name devised by Master Bonueur, which not only
is an acronym of the baronies that make up the Principality, but in Arabic
signifies "The Fortress." Official adoption of the name awaits the
approval of the Lord Laurel and then of the Board, but we may as well use it in
the meantime."
Calontir -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Northern Arkansas. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: Calontir. "calon 1. heart n.f. (calonnau); tir 1. land n.m (tiroedd); Thus "Calontir" would translate literally as "Heartland." -- Fujiwara no Kitsume (Calontir) (The translation is taken from an online English to Welsh/Welsh to English dictionary at: http://www.geiriadur.net)
Canton -- A Canton is a small branch within the SCA. It is often (but not always) a sub-group contained within a Barony or Province.
Chamberlain -- An officer in charge of inventorying and maintaining the regalia of a Kingdom, Principality or Barony, often a deputy of the Exchequer's office. The office is either appointed by and only as long as the current reign or is invested as a regular officer for the standard tenure independent of reigns. This office is not universal in the SCA. This definition comes from an An Tirian, and the position's responsibilities will vary from Kingdom to Kingdom.
Chatelaine -- The officer in charge of greeting and helping newcomers. Also loans costumes and gear as needed (Gold Key).
Chirurgeon -- (pronounced kier-ur-jun, or surgeon or ...) An officer with first-aid training who stands by at events to render assistance as needed. Chirugeons are required to have formal qualification, at least a multi-media First Aid Card and CPR. The Chirurgeon may have a pavilion on site at an event, which would then be flying the banner for that office. This banner is usually red, with a white drop and a charge called a "fleam" on that -- it sort of looks like a weird '7'. This is the place to go if you have had an accident and someone is hurt ... NOTE: If an accident occurs and you are not comfortable trying to pronounce "Chirurgeon", just cry out for "Medic" or "First Aid" or something of that nature -- help will come running -- don't stand on formalities when someone's been hurt!
Chivalry, Order of -- The Order of Chivalry consists of those who have been recognized for their fighting skills on the field of honor, as well as other skills required to make a "well-rounded" individual. This order consists of Knights and Masters of Arms. Historical Note: The first Knight of the SCA was created at the first event, but subsequently others were made Knights during a ceremony at Twelfth Night, AS II (January 6, 1968), as well as those who could/would not swear fealty (for whatever reason) who were made Masters of Arms. This was done by [King] William the Silent. Note that members of the Order of Chivalry are equivalent in rank to the members of the Orders of the Laurel, the Pelican and the Order of the Rose.
Chronicler -- The officer in charge of a group's newsletter.
Circlet -- A (usually) metal band worn on the head -- to keep the hair out of the eyes or the veil in place -- or just for decoration. Many kingdoms have sumptuary laws with regard to the allowed width of circlets, before investing in one it is suggested that you check your kingdom's laws.
Clear! -- A word called to indicate that someone is about to draw a steel weapon, so passers-by should watch where they step.
College -- A College is a branch based on a University campus. The guidelines for activity levels are more loosely defined for a College, as they have some of the most transient populations in the SCA.
College of Arms -- This is the SCA-wide College of Heralds. The College of Arms is responsible for registration of SCA Names and SCA Armory (device/coat of arms/badges). Note that the SCA College of Arms is not related to the SCA Registrar's office, and there is little, if any, communication between the two. There is a saying among the heralds: "We don't register your membership, and the Registrar doesn't register your name and arms." The SCA College of Arms has their own website: SCA College of Arms if you are interested in more details about the office of the heralds ...
College of Heralds -- The Kingdom version of the College of Arms. This is the collective of the heralds in the Kingdom, headed by a "Principal" herald (in the West, Vesper Principal Herald, for example). The Kingdom College of Heralds handles a variety of tasks, ranging from working with the members of the populace to register names and arms, to making announcements at events, announcing fights on the field of honor, and being the master of ceremonies for Court. Not all heralds do all aspects of the office, so a court herald may not be familiar with name research, and so on ... The SCA College of Arms has their own website: SCA College of Arms if you are interested in more details about the office of the heralds ... In addition, most Kingdom websites have information for their specific College of Heralds. The College of Heralds has a lot of specialized terminology, much of which is defined in a glossary for that purpose. You can view this at: College of Heralds Glossary of Terms.
Collegium -- An event held specifically to educate members of the populace. Classes are taught all day (sometimes over two or more days) on topics ranging all over the SCA map -- Arts and Sciences, Fighting, and whatever else interests members. Some branches call these Universities, but the concept is the same, except that some Universities may offer a degree if the student is willing to put in the work. (This degree is not recognized outside of the SCA, however.)
Consort -- One whose favor a fighter carries into a tournament. In a Crown or Coronet tournament, should the fighter win the tournament, the consort would be co-ruler with that fighter.
Constable -- The Constable is an officer in the SCA whose job varies from Kingdom to Kingdom. In the West, one of the primary responsibilities is to ensure that the gate is manned (someone is taking care of business at the front-door for an event, taking money, getting people to sign waivers, etc.). The Constables often take care of "Lost and Found" as well as a variety of other tasks. Not seen very much in the middle kingdom except at larger events.
Coronation -- The event where the Crown Prince and Crown Princess become the new King and Queen, and the outgoing King and Queen step down. If the outgoing King and Queen are not yet Count or Countess, or Duke or Duchess, then they are recognized in these titles and estates at the same event.
Coronet -- This term has more than one meaning. When used in respect to a Principality, "Coronet" often refers to the Prince and Princess together ("It is the word of the Coronet ..."). A Coronet is also a circlet worn by a Prince or Princess; a Duke or Duchess; a Count or Countess; a Viscount or Viscountess; or a Baron or Baroness (landed or Court). Some Coronets have very specific designs by tradition (these traditions are not necessarily being observed as closely anymore, however). A Ducal (worn by a Duke or Duchess) coronet has a set of three strawberry leaves at the four points (front, back and both sides). A County coronet is embattled. Other coronets may vary, depending on who is wearing them (personal decorations are usually allowed). Principality and Baronial Coronets (for a Barony, as opposed to Court Barony coronets, which are personal) are passed from one holder to another, and are not personal property.
Corpora -- The documents that define the SCA in the mundane (non-medieval) world. Definitions of what we do, what our structure is, and more are contained within. A copy of these can be obtained by contacting the Board of Directors.
Count/Countess -- These titles are used for those who have reigned as King or Queen once (or more), and they are assumed when the King/Queen has stepped down, however there is usually a ceremony which confirms these titles.
Court -- The word
generally refers to a formal gathering of an SCA chapter, presided over by its
ceremonial leaders. The primary activities of a court include announcements,
presentations and awards from the leaders to individuals in the group.
A second meaning for this word refers to the
retinue of the royalty, as in "Talk to a member of the court." These
are folk who are trusted by the royalty to assist them during Their Reign ...
sometimes this includes the herald, but not always. Sometimes members of the
court "run interference" to keep the royals from being overwhelmed,
they are also a good way to find out details about the plans the Royals have for
future events, etc. If you find it hard to talk to the Royalty, try to talk to a
member of Their Court. Some folk refer to members of the court as the Retinue or
Royal Retinue.
Crown -- This term has two general meanings. The first is the King and Queen of a Kingdom working together (i.e., "the word of the Crown"). The other is the coronet worn by the King and/or Queen. These are specific to the Kingdom, and belong to the Kingdom, not the individuals currently wearing them.
Crown Prince/Crown Princess -- The victor in the Crown Tournament and the victor's consort. The victor is named Crown Prince, and his consort is named Crown Princess. If a female fighter wins a Crown Tournament, the victor is named the Crown Princess, and the consort is then named the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince and Crown Princess will become the King and Queen at the next Coronation event, at which time the current King and Queen will step down. Historical Note: The titles of Crown Prince and Crown Princess were first used at the First Coronation and Crown Tournament, March 25, AS I (1967), and were first granted to [Duke] Richard the Short and [Countess] Anne of San Anselmo by [King] Henrik of Havn.
Crash Space -- Informal lodging with members of the group holding an event. Many SCA members regard anyone in the organization as a distant cousin, and make floor space available for out of town visitors.
Dame -- This is an alternate title that may be used by members of the Orders of Chivalry, the Laurel or the Pelican for those females who do not wish to use the title "Mistress" or "Sir" (in the case of the Order of Chivalry). In addition, there are a variety of Title Language Equivalents that can be used for those who wish to use a specific language for their persona.
Drachenwald -- A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions: Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: Drachenwald. The name translates from German to "Dragon Woods" or "Dragon Forest". (I have no other information about the meaning or origin of their name.)
Dry/Damp/Wet Site -- This refers to a site's alcoholic beverage policy. Dry sites allow no alcohol. Damp sites permit wine, beer, and mead, but no hard liquor. Wet sites do not restrict alcohol. "Discreetly" damp or wet means that the site is normally dry, but the owners have agreed to permit us to use alcohol as long as the labelled containers are kept out of sight and are removed at the end of the event.
Duke/Duchess -- These
titles are automatically granted to those who have reigned as King or Queen
twice [or more], and are assumed when the person steps down from the Throne at
the end of their second reign (although there is usually a ceremony to recognize
the titles). A Duke or Duchess is entitled to use the title "Duke Ealdormere -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions: Ontario, Canada. More details
about this Kingdom can be found at their website: Ealdormere.
East, The -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): eastern Pennsylvania,
New Jersey, Delaware, eastern New York, The New England states. In Canada:
Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland. More
details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: The
East. Historical Note: The East Kingdom is the second Kingdom founded
in the SCA, it was started by Elfrida and Walter of Greenwalls (Marion Zimmer
Bradley and her then husband Walter Breen). The Annotated History notes the
following about the first Kingdom event (June 2, 1968 - AS III): "Held at
the Cloisters, New York City, New York. A tourney was planned but it was rained
out. Elfrida and Walter of Greenwalls were the seneschals and the autocrats.
Koppel funem Lachfalk was the Herald. Elfrida appointed Maragon the Artificer to
sit as King and Adrienne of Toldedo to sit as Queen, to preside over the first
tourney and the first crown lists, whereupon the first true king would be chosen
by combat. When the tourney was rained out the group wandered through the
Cloisters looking at the Unicorn Tapestries and freaking out the museum guards.
Present were Elfrida and Walter of Greenwalls, Adrienne of Toledo, Maragon the
Artificer, Alfgar the Sententious, El of the Two Knives, Rakurai of Kamakura,
Eleolf Erickson, Robert the Puppeteer, and Cynthia Ornam." As the first
Crown Tournament was called due to rain, it was held the next month (July 21,
1968, AS III).
Estrella War -- An inter-kingdom war held in
the Southwest of the United States every spring (early). This war has a history
going back to the early years of the SCA (February AS XII, 1978). The first few
Estrella wars were between Atenveldt and the West. This has changed over the
years ... The following is from an FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) File on the
"Rialto": [Estrella is an annual war between four Principle Kingdoms -
Atenveldt, Artemisia, Caid and Outlands. They change allies each year at the
treaty negotiations. It has taken place since 1985, and is held at Schnepf Farms
near Queen Creek, Az. It is held on President's Day weekend (February). More
information can be found at http://www.estrellawar.org.
It has been noted that the location of this war has moved back to Estrella
Mountain Park in Goodyear, Arizona.
Event -- An SCA gathering, usually with a
special medieval theme. Events can be held indoors at a variety of sites or at
campgrounds. Events are "official" events (ones that, for example, are
covered by SCA Insurance, and the Royalty may grant awards at) if they are
published in the Kingdom Newsletter ...
Excellency, His/Her/Your -- Used as the
title of address for Counts and Countesses, Viscounts and Viscountesses, and
Landed and Court Barons and Baronesses. It is also a safe fallback address if
one cannot remember the correct one for any high ranking personage up to and
including the Crown. They are all Excellencies.
Exchequer -- The Exchequer, or sometimes
"Chancellor of the Exchequer" is the officer who is in charge of
tracking money spent by local groups, and at the Kingdom level tracking it
there. This entails a lot of paperwork. Be nice to your exchequer.
Favor -- A ribbon or other personal token
given (usually to a fighter) as a mark of esteem. Favors may indicate simple
friendship or a commitment to serve as consort. See also token.
Fealty -- A
relationship between individuals marked by an exchange of oaths of service and
protection. For a discussion of this topic that attempts to be mostly neutral on
what can sometimes be a "hot" topic, see this article: Fealty,
Loyalty, and Obedience (this is an Adobe Acrobat file ...).
Feast -- An event at which the main activity
is the consumption of an elaborate meal, often accompanied by entertainment.
Feast Gear -- Tableware for one diner.
Almost all SCA feasts assume that the guests will bring everything they need to
eat in comfort, including plates, bowls, goblets and utensils. Many people also
bring decorative tablecloths, candles and other items to grace their table.
Feastocrat -- This is a term sometimes used
by an autocrat running a feast, or in the case of some
events, the autocrat runs the event, and the feastocrat specifically runs the
kitchen. Note that there is no historical basis for the use of this term, and
indeed, it is probably a made-up word based on "autocrat" -- many
purists frown on its use, and instead suggest such terms as "Head
Cook", or "Kitchener" be used.
Gate -- Sometimes called the "Troll
Booth", or other derogatory terms, this is the place at most SCA events
(particularly camping events) where you sign waivers and pay site fees. In the
West the gate is usually manned by Constables or volunteers working with the
Constables.
Garb -- The medieval clothing worn at SCA
events. (After a few events, it doesn't feel like a costume anymore!)
Gentles -- A general reference to the lords
and ladies assembled.
Gold Key -- A collection of loaner garb and
gear for the use of newcomers, generally maintained by the Chatelaine. There is,
in some kingdoms, an officer designed as "Gold Key" as well. The badge
for the Gold Key office is a gold or yellow key on a green background.
Grace, His/Her/Your -- Used as the title of
address for Dukes and Duchesses.
Grant of Arms --
This award is a higher level recognition than an "Award of Arms" (see
above) -- in Precedence it falls between an Award of Arms and a Peerage. It was
first created to recognize Kingdom Officers for the work that they had done for
the Kingdom. It is given at the King and Queen's whim now, but is still often
given to Kingdom Officers for a job well-done.
Great Western War (GWW) -- This is a war
between the West and Caid.
Guild -- An organization chartered in one or
more kingdoms to promote the study and practice of some particular Art or
Science.
Gulf War -- (The 'Gulf' in question being
the Gulf of Mexico, rather than the Persian Gulf.) The following is from an FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions) File on the "Rialto": [Gulf War is an
annual war between Ansteorra and Trimaris, being hosted by Meridies. It takes
place at King's Arrow Ranch near Lumberton, MS. It is currently held during
"spring break" in mid-March each year. More information can be found
at http://www.gulfwars.org.
Hat -- An SCA slang term for a Coronet,
a Crown, or a Circlet. It can of
course be used for any other form of head-gear that is not related to SCA regalia.
Note that using the term "hat" as slang for a Coronet or Crown is a
bad idea, as it diminishes the importance of them -- Coronets and Crowns serve a
purpose, to denote those who have been honored in some fashion, and calling
these pieces of regalia "hats" makes them seem less important in the
scheme of what we're all doing.
Heavy Weapons -- These
are the usual tournament and war-weapons (sword and shield and other weapons
such as mace, axe, polearms, and more) which, in order to be used, require the
use of armor, and training. A fighter must be authorized
in the use of these weapons for his or her own safety, as well as the safety of
his or her opponents.
Herald -- A person who is trained to
function in one or more of the areas defined by the College of
Heralds. A herald is an officer of the SCA. There are a variety of types of
heralds, but they mainly break down to three areas: announcements (on the field
of honor ["Field Herald"], general announcements -- sometimes called
"duty" ["Duty Herald"]), master of ceremonies for court
["Court Herald"], and name/device/armory consultation
["Submissions Herald", or "Research Herald"]. There are
other duties performed by heralds, including keeping track of the Awards Lists,
and more. Note that not all heralds are good at or have an interest in all
aspects of the office, so a Court Herald may not be interested in name research
and so on ...
Herald's Point -- Usually a pavilion at an
outdoor event, near or on the eric. This is a place where the heralds hold
meetings, and run business. If you need a herald, this is the most likely place
to find one. The pavilion will usually display the banner of the heralds, which
is a green background with a pair of crossed straight trumpets in gold or
yellow.
High Table -- The table at a feast where the
presiding nobility and the honored guests are seated. Also called "Head
Table."
Highness, His/Her/Your -- Used as the title
of address for Princes and Princesses. Formally, a Crown Prince or Princess is
addressed as a Royal Highness. Coronets will sometimes augment this title in a
manner appropriate to Themselves or Their Lands (ie., Their Alpine Highnesses,
Her Serene Highness, etc.).
HOLD! -- A cry meaning "Stop whatever
you are doing and freeze in place until you see where the hazard is!" The
basic use is in combat, but it's been extended to cover all forms of activity.
If on the field of combat, the norm is not only to stop, but to drop to one knee
...
Household -- A voluntary association of
friends or people with similar interest. organized under whatever rules the
members jointly accept. Households have no formal standing in the SCA.
Investiture -- The ceremony wherein a Prince
and Princess receive their Coronets, a Landed Baron and Baroness receive the
insignia of their Barony, or an officer receives tokens of office. See also Coronation.
If the outgoing Prince and Princess are not already a Viscount or Viscountess,
they are recognized with these titles at this time.
King -- The King is
normally the person who won the Crown Tournament (there are rare cases where a
female fighter has won), for the honor of their consort, who becomes the Queen
(except as noted). The King and Queen are the ceremonial heads of the Kingdom. Historical
Note: The first time a King was named was at the First Coronation and Crown
Tournament, March 25, 1967 (AS I, 1967). The first person so named was Henrik of
Havn, who won the Crown Tournament in September of 1966, the crown was placed on
his head by Fulk de Wyvern, who had won the previous tournament. Henrik and
Wendryn were actually given scrolls at the tournament in September (1966) to
commerate the event, that named them King and Queen, but the titles weren't
"official" until later.
Kingdom -- A branch of
the SCA with the ceremonial leaders King and Queen. The first Kingdom of the SCA
was The West Kingdom, although when the SCA was started, the name used to refer
to it was often simply "The Kingdom", if any name was used at all.
When the East Kingdom was formed (June, AS III - 1968) and named "The
Kingdom of the East", the "Kingdom of the West" became the
"official" name of "The Kingdom". At the time of this
writing, there are 16 Kingdoms across the SCA, one in Europe, the others are
based in the United States, but some of those have branches in other parts of
the world, including Australia, Japan/Korea, Canada, and other locations. A
Kingdom may have Principalities, but they are not required. All other branches
are sub-groups of a Kingdom (Principality, Shire, Barony, etc.). You can get
more details about any individual Kingdom from the SCA's website on the
"Geography" of the SCA: SCA
Geography. This website has links to the websites for each of the Kingdoms.
Knight -- A Knight is a
peer of the realm, named so for his or her capability on the tournament field. A
Knight is a member of the Order of Chivalry, which also includes Masters of
Arms. A Knight is entitled to wear as regalia a chain of large open links (to
signify his/her fealty to the Crown), a white belt (to signify his/her prowess)
and a pair of spurs (to signify his/her rank). Note that a Knight must swear
fealty to the Crown and Kingdom when they are made a Knight, a Master of Arms
does not. A Knight is styled "Sir Laurel, Order of the --
The Order of the Laurel is a peerage level recognition. The focus of this
recognition is excellence in the Arts and/or Sciences. Historically this
recognition was given for service when it was created, as well as Arts/Sciences,
but this changed when the Order of the Pelican was created at the Kingdom level.
Members of this Order may wear a medallion displaying a Laurel Wreath. A member
of the Order of the Laurel may style themselves "Master Light Weapons -- A
light fighter is someone who does not use "heavy" weapons (sword and
shield, etc.), but instead uses missle style weapons, which can range from bows
and arrows to javelins. Light fighters don't usually get to "play"
except in war-time scenarios. Light fighters need to be authorized,
and wear armor, but the restrictions are different from
"heavy" fighters.
Lillies (War of the) -- The following is
from an FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) file on the "Rialto": [Lilies
is an annual war that takes place in Calontir. Each year a new scenario is
developed to vary the sides. Past scenarios have included Winter Queens vs.
Summer Queens, Laurels vs. Pelicans, Baronies vs. Shires, and so on. It takes
place at Smithville Lake, near Kansas City, MO.]
Lists -- "The
Lists" refers to the lists (paper listings of combatants) used to run a
tournament. Other uses of this term include the field on which a tournament or
combat activity is taking place.
List Field -- The list field, or tournament
field -- this is where the offical martial competitions at SCA events takes
place. The list field is usually in the center of the event site, and usually
has the Royal Pavilion as well as other pavlilions around it. This area is
defined by ropes, often with flags hanging off of them at a tournament.
List Table -- The place where the Minister
of the Lists keeps track of the paperwork necessary to actually run the lists.
This is usually a spot on the eric or tournament field, usually in a pavillion
or under a sun shade.
Livery -- livery is
most often a form of clothing that is worn to denote a relationship between
people. It can be used by a "lord" or "lady" and used to
denote a household relationship; it can be used to denote a relationship between
a student and the person they are associated with; a local branch and members of
same; and so on.
Lochac, Kingdom of -- a Kingdom
of the SCA. The region covered by this Kingdom is Australia and New Zealand.
More details about Lochac can be found at their website: http://www.sca.org.au/lochac/.
Lord/Lady -- As capitalized, is used as a
title within the SCA for those with Awards of Arms. Note that unless someone
specifically does not wish to be recognized as nobility within the SCA, anyone
may be called "lord" or "lady" -- when using the title for
someone who is not armigerous, one uses it a with lower-case "L" ...
Lordship/Ladyship, His/Her/Your -- Used as
the title of address within some Kingdoms of the SCA for those with
Grants of Arms. In addition, The Honorable Lord or The Honorable Lady may be
used ...
Majesty, His/Her/Your -- Used as the title
of address for Kings and Queens. Crowns will sometimes augment this title in a
manner appropriate to Themselves or Their Lands (ie., Their Occidental
Majesties, His Dread Majesty, etc.).
Marshal -- A specially
trained person who oversees combat activities. (The SCA's version of a referee.)
The Kingdom office is usually called "Earl Marshal".
Master/Mistress -- The titles of
"Master" or "Mistress" are reserved to those members of the
peerage who wish to use them. See also Peer, Laurel,
Pelican, or Master of Arms.
Master of Arms -- Is a
member of the Order of Chivalry along with those who are Knights. The only
difference between a Master of Arms and a Knight is that a Knight is required to
swear fealty when they are made a Knight, and a Master of Arms is not. A Master
of Arms does not wear a chain to signify an oath of fealty, and rather than
wearing a white belt, they wear a white baldric to signify their prowess. See Knight
for more information. Note that members of the Order of
Chivalry are equivalent in rank to the members of the Orders of the Laurel,
the Pelican and the Order of the Rose.
Meridies -- (pronounced, to the best of
my understanding: Mair-id-ee-ees, the natives pronounce it: Mer -rid -dee -ayes
(as in long a)). A Kingdom in the SCA. This Kingdom
covers these regions (of the US): Georgia (nearly all of), Alabama, Mississippi,
Louisiana, Arkansas (most of), Tennessee, a bit of the panhandle of Florida, and
small portions of both Kentucky and Virginia. More details about this Kingdom
can be found at their website: Meridies.
According to a gentle in Meridies, the history of the name is: The word meridies
was taken from the definition of the word Meridian - Defined adj.
[OFr meridien L meridianus] of noon, southern meridies, noon, the south.
Meridies is the Kingdom comprised of mostly states in the Southern United
States.
Merchant's Row -- The
area of an event where folks who are selling merchandise set up. The perfect
place for all your medieval shopping! Not all events have a "Merchant's
Row", but many of the larger events do.
Middle, The -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Ohio, Kentucky,
Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, a nip of Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North and
South Dakota. Canada: Manitoba, and a bit of Ontario. The Middle Kingdom is the
third Kingdom founded in the SCA. More details about this Kingdom can be found
at their website: The Middle.
The Middle is sometimes called The Midrealm. Historical Note: The first
Crown Tournament of the Midrealm was held July 4-6, 1969 (AS IV). The Annotated
History describes this event: "Held at Wilmot Mountain, Wisconsin. King
Bruce of Cloves sent Adrienne of Toledo as his representative, who presided as
Queen over the lists. Present were Michael Bradley of Bradley, Franz von
Blikenlichten, Cariadoc of the Bow, Diana Alene, and others. Cariadoc of the Bow
won, using a two-handed sword. (The Middle was at this time part of the East and
known as the Principality Under the Mountain.)"
Minstrel -- Similar to Bard, if not the
same. Someone who performs music, at bardic circles or elsewhere ...
Mists, Principality of The -- a Principality
of the Kingdom of the West. The region covered by this Principality is the
greater San Francisco (California) Bay Area. It is in what is often called the
"central" part of the Kingdom of the West, and is so named for the
well-known fog that comes off of the San Francisco Bay. More details about The
Mists can be found at their website: Principality
of The Mists.
Mundane -- Modern, not-in-the-SCA. Not meant
to be insulting.
Newbie -- Someone new to the SCA, the term
is not meant to be insulting, but simply to describe someone who is still
"learning the ropes".
Nordmark, Principality of -- a Principality
of the Kingdom of Drachenwald. The region covered by this Principality is the
mundane Kingdom of Sweden (hard to tell from their website, because oddly enough
it is in Swedish, with some parts having a translation into English). More
details about Nordmark can be found at their website: http://www.nordmark.org/.
Nordmark means quite literally 'North March'.
Northshield, Kingdom of -- formerly a Principality
of the Kingdom of the Middle, having crowned their first
King and Queen in October, 2004 (A.S. XXXIX) they are now officially a Kingdom
in their own right. The region covered by this Kingdom is northwestern Ontario,
Manitoba, North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and a bit of Michigan.
More details about Northshield can be found at their website: http://www.northshield.org/.
Oertha, Principality of -- a Principality
of the Kingdom of the West. The region covered by this Principality is most of
the mundane state of Alaska. More details about Oertha can be found at their
website: http://www.angelfire.com/ak/Oertha/. Officer -- Someone appointed (volunteered)
to do one of the jobs in the civil service of a Society branch, or of the SCA as
a corporation.
Out of Period (OOP) -- The SCA period,
while loosely defined, does have a definition. The term "Out of
Period" or "OOP" is sometimes used to define something that does
not fit within the scope of the SCA ...
Outlands, The -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): New Mexico, most of
Colorado, parts of Wyoming and Nebraska, and El Paso and Hudspeth counties of
Texas. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: The
Outlands. (I have no information about the meaning or origin of their name.)
OYEZ! or Oy Yay! -- Cry used by heralds in
some Kingdoms, to gain the attention of the populace. Stop and listen for the
announcement when you hear a herald call - for simple courtesy, as the herald is
the voice of the Crown, and because you may well need to know what he's trying
to tell you. (pronounced Oh-yay! or Oy-yay ... oy vey!)
Pas d'Armes -- Literally a "Passage of
Arms", this is a 'themed' tournament.
Page/Page School -- A "Page" in
the SCA is usually a younger member of the organization (a child, pre-teen in
some definitions ... this is likely to vary from Kingdom to Kingdom). A
"Page School" is usually an organized attempt to teach these younger
members of the organization some of what the SCA is about. Most Kingdoms have a
"Children's Officer" of some sort, in the West Kingdom the office is
specifically the "Page School Chancellor".
Pavilion -- A term used to refer to a
medieval-style tent.
Peer/Peerage -- A Knight,
Master of Arms, Laurel, Pelican,
member of the Order of the Rose, or a Royal
Peer (Duke, Duchess, Count, Countess, Viscount, Viscountess). They hold
their title(s) by Letters Patent, or a Patent of Arms. The term "The
Peerage" refers to the collective "peers" (i.e., The Peerage, or
The members of the Peerage ...) You can find out more about Peerage in the SCA
at this website: Peerage
in the SCA.
Pelican, Order of the (Imperial) -- The
Order of the Pelican is a peerage level recognition. It is given specifically
for service to the SCA. Members of this Order may wear a medallion displaying a
Pelican in its Piety. A member of the Order of the Pelican may style themselves
"Master Pelican, Order of the (Kingdom)
-- The Order of the Pelican is a peerage level recognition. It is given
specifically given specifically for service to the SCA. Members of this Order
may wear a medallion displaying a Pelican in its Piety. A member of the Order of
the Pelican may style themselves "Master Pell -- A practice dummy or stake most often
used by heavy fighters, not to be confused with the shorthand 'Pel' for Pelican.
Sometimes used in derogatory reference to a particularly unskilled fighter.
Pennsic War -- A war held between the
Kingdom of the Middle and the Kingdom of the East. This war is the largest in
the SCA, and is held for approx. one week with many activities. The following is
from an FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) file on the "Rialto": [Pennsic
is an annual war, with the main contenders being the East and Middle Kingdoms.
It is the largest recurring event in the Laurel Kingdoms, with attendance in
1996 of just under 10,000. It has taken place since 1972, and has been held at
Coopers Lake Campground near Slippery Rock, PA since 1977. The main battles of
the war are held the third weekend in August, with other activities taking place
the week and weekend preceding that. Pennsic was so named from
"Pennsylvania" on the model of "Punic." More information can
be found at http://www.pennsicwar.org.
Period -- The
historical era used by the SCA as a base for its activities. The SCA period is
generally considered 600 AD. to 1600 AD. (The 'starting date' is very open to
interpretation, but the ending date is defined in Corpora
...)
Persona -- The character assumed by an SCA
member. This may involve anything from adopting a name to developing a full
history for a person born and raised at some specific place and time in the
period covered by the SCA.
Populace -- A word describing the
inhabitants of a kingdom, place or group present at an event.
Port -- A small SCA branch based in a harbor
of some sort (often used for U.S. Naval Bases).
Post-revel -- A party after the main event,
usually in someone's home, for socializing and unwinding. Guests often wear
modern clothes. Post-revels are activities that are not officially sponsored by
the SCA.
Precedence, Order of -- This is the
precedence of awards within the SCA. The period studied and re-created by the
SCA was a highly structured time -- "a place for every person, every person
in their place" (as a song written by an SCAer goes ...). The SCA uses a
structure that is sort of home-grown with the idea of emulating some of this
medieval structure. The Order of Precedence is a means of tracking where someone
ranks in relation to everyone else.
Prince/Princess -- The
ceremonial heads of a Principality. When a Prince and Princess have completed
their first reigns, they are automatically entitled to the title
of Viscount or Viscountess.
Principality --
An SCA branch that has a ceremonial head of a Prince and Princess. The first
Principality of the SCA was Atenveldt in their fast rise to become a Kingdom.
See "Barony" for details ...
Privy -- Chemical toilet used at camping
events. Sometimes called a portacastle.
Proof of Membership -- Your membership card
or a recent Kingdom newsletter label with your name and address.
Protegé -- A person
accepted as a student by a Master or Mistress of the Pelican
Province -- A branch with the same
requirements as a Barony, but not having the ceremonial leader of a Baron and/or
a Baroness.
Pursuivant -- A student. This title is used
as an heraldic title, as is a "Pursuivant-Extraordinary", to show the
skill level of a herald ... a full "Pursuivant" is the highest rank a
person may retain "permanently" in the College of Heralds.
Queen -- The Queen is
(usually) the person who is the consort of the person who won the Crown
Tournament. Note that it is possible (although rare) for a Queen to be the
Sovereign by Right of Arms, which would make the King the consort. For more
information, see also "King".
Queen of Love and Beauty -- The First SCA
Tournament (May 1, 1966) was for the honor of naming a lady Queen of Love and
Beauty. At this tournament Sir Aeginius (aka Duke Richard the Short) won the
tournament, and named Marynel of Darkhaven as the first Queen of Love and
Beauty. This title is sometimes used for tournaments that are not specifically
Crown or other tournaments, and is not to be confused with Queen.
Quest -- usually an activity as part of an
event, where parties of people head out and confront a variety of encounters,
with an ultimate goal of some sort. These were common in the early days of the
SCA, but less common now that events tend to be packed with other activities.
Rattan -- The stem of a climbing palm, used
in the SCA for Heavy Weapons because its weight and handling properties resemble
steel while its overall resilience and other properties permit it to be used
with relative safety.
Regalia/Regalia Minister
-- Regalia is all that fancy stuff, or the trappings, that go with an office or
perhaps even an awarded title in the SCA. For a seneschal the regalia might be a
large key on a ribbon, or a cloak with the badge of the office on it. For a
knight, the regalia is typically an open-link chain (to signify their fealty), a
white belt (to signify their prowess) and spurs (to signify that they are a
knight). The King and Queen's regalia includes the Crowns, the Thrones, Royal
Pavilion, and whatever else may go with the office. The Regalia Minister is
usually the person in charge of making sure that all of the regalia gets to an
event, and leaves the event, intact.
Regnum -- List of Society branches and
officers. You will find this in most Kingdom newsletters ...
Retinue -- see Court
(second definition).
Revel -- An event/gather devoted to dancing,
drama, conversation, games, and refreshments. (A party.)
Riding -- A small, Canton-equivalent branch
dependent upon the support of a Province. A Riding bears the same relationship
to a Province that a Canton does to a Barony.
Rose, Order of the --
This award was created to grant those who had reigned as Queen of Love and
Beauty (and later, simply as Queen) to give them equal rank with those who had
reigned as King (who were, in the early days, automatically Knights if they
weren't before they won the tournament). Historical Note: In the very
early days of the SCA, if a fighter was not a Knight and they won the Crown
Tournament, they were offered Knighthood. The Order of the Rose was created to
give an equivalent title, as Countess (and Duchess) did not exist at the time.
This was first granted at Twelfth Night, AS II (January 6, 1968) by [King]
William the Silent, and was backdated for those who had reigned up until that
point as Queen. In the West Kingdom, membership in the Order of the Rose is
automatic (this is not the case in all Kingdoms of the SCA) -- when a former
Queen is recognized as a Countess, they are also admitted to the Order of the
Rose. Note that members of the Order of the Rose are equivalent in rank to the
members of the Orders of Chivalry, the Laurel
and the Pelican. However, most people do not think of the
Order of the Rose as a peerage level award, as the recipient is also becoming a
Countess at the same time, which outranks the other non-royal peerages, as the
title is that of a Royal Peer (and the Countess title carries the Patent of
Arms, which the Order of the Rose does not ...).
Rowany Festival -- This is the largest event
held in the Kingdom of Lochac (formerly a Principality of the Kingdom of the
West). It is held on Easter weekend in the Barony of Rowany. It includes heavy
and mixed wars, tournament fighting, archery and rapier events. There are also
collegium classes running all weekend, Merchant's Row, a
Bardic Circle, tavern, and more. For more information, see: http://www.sca.org.au/rowany
(click the 'Festival' button).
Royal Peer -- A peerage
that was granted for having spent months on the Throne, serving the populace as
Royalty. There are three levels of Royal Peerage: Ducal (Duke,
Duchess) -- someone who has been King or Queen at least twice; County
(Count, Countess) -- someone who has been King or Queen once; and Viscounty
(Viscount, Viscountess) -- someone has been Prince or Princess at least
once. See also Peer.
Royal Retinue -- see Court
(second definition).
Royalty -- The Royalty
are the ceremonial heads of their branches of the SCA. A King
and Queen are the heads of a Kingdom,
and a Prince and Princess are the heads of a Principality.
The job of the royalty is to add to the pageantry and ambience of SCA events; to
grant awards to those whom they feel deserving; to
administer the laws as needed. Within the SCA, Royalty changes hands every few
months (ranging from 4 to 6 months usually, depending on the region and the
royalty -- in the West Kingdom, the King and Queen change every four months, but
the Principality royalty (Prince/Princess) for all four Principalities changes
every 6 months).
SCA -- see Society for Creative Anachronism,
below.
SCA Name -- The name someone uses in the
Society for their persona. Includes at least one given name, and can have at
least one other name or qualifier, but no titles; all titles used in the Society
must be granted by SCA royalty.
Sciences, Minister of -- The Minister of
Sciences is an SCA officer whose job is to foster the Sciences in whatever means
that they can. This is often through competitions and displays. The Minister of
Sciences usually works closely with the Minister of the Arts, and in some
Kingdoms these two offices are combined.
Scribe -- A person with artistic talent in
the area of calligraphy and/or illumination, who gives of their time and talent
to create award scrolls for recipients of armigerous awards.
Sir -- This is the title granted a Knight.
The common use is "Sir Seneschal -- Group administrator, and legal
representative of the SCA found at local, regional, kingdom, and Society levels.
Shire -- A small, usually autonomous local
branch.
Site -- The place an event is being held.
Site Fee -- The cost of admission to an
event, usually stated in the coin of the modern country where the event is being
held.
Society for Creative Anachronism -- The name
of an organization whose primary focus is the study and re-creation of the
Western European Medieval Culture. Historical Note: The name was coined
by Marion Zimmer Bradley (Elfrida of Greenwalls) and Diana Paxson (Diana
Listmaker) for the SCA's second event, off the top of their heads -- no real
thought went into the name. The name should not be used as an excuse to
concentrate on areas not defined by the SCA (i.e., "The middle name of the
group is 'Creative' after all ..."). For more information on the SCA beyond
what is contained in this glossary, see the SCA, Inc.'s website: http://www.sca.org.
Squire -- A fighter who has been accepted as
a student by a member of the Chivalry. (In the West,
squires may wear red belts in token of the association -- this does not
reserve red belts as regalia that only squires may wear, nor is it required that
squires wear red belts.)
Steward -- this term is sometimes used in
place of Autocrat.
Stronghold -- A small SCA branch based in a
military installation of some sort (often used for US Army or Air Force Bases).
Summits, Principality of The -- a Principality
of the Kingdom of An Tir. The region covered by this Principality is the
northern edge of the Canton of Nordholt (Linn County, OR) to the border of the
West Kingdom (Northern California) and from the coast to the border of the
northern parts of the Kingdom of Artemisia (Idaho). More details about the
Summits can be found at their website: http://www.adiantum.peak.org/summits/.
Sumptuary Laws --
Sumptuary Laws are laws that describe and sometimes proscribe regalia
-- i.e., who can wear or display any specific type of regalia, what rank they
must be to do so, etc. The West Kingdom does not have any sumptuary laws, but
does have some strong traditions that go back to the earliest days of the SCA.
The SCA-Garb list has an article on Sumptuary
Laws ...
Tir Righ, Principality of The -- a Principality
of the Kingdom of An Tir. The region covered by this Principality is the greater
part of British Columbia west of the High Rockies, Vancouver Island, and the
northernmost edge of Washington. More details about Tir Righ can be found at
their website: http://www.kwantlen.bc.ca/~donna/sca/northern/.
This branch was called for awhile the Principality of the North.
Title -- A Title is
granted with some awards that may be given by SCA Royalty.
Some awards carry specific titles, which are forms of address, and some do not.
Awards that carry or grant titles are those such as Awards
of Arms, Grants of Arms, Peerages,
Royal Peerages. There are a variety of Title
Language Equivalents that can be used for those who wish to use a specific
language for their persona. Officers and Royalty also have specific titles that
are used (King, Queen, Marshal, Herald, etc.), and some offices have specific
titles for specific officers within their office (the heralds have quite a few,
based on period Colleges of Arms, and these vary from Kingdom to Kingdom).
Token -- This term has
several meanings. Simply put, a token is a physical symbol of some sort of
association with a person or group of persons. In some cases, an award
may have a token (usually worn on a chain or ribbon). Some local SCA branches or
households also have tokens that are sometimes worn. Some SCA events may have
tokens that are worn to show that you have paid your site fee, and may be kept
after the event is over. Tokens can take a variety of shapes, and have a variety
of meanings ...
Tourney -- Originally a verb meaning
"to take part in a tournament," the word is now often used to mean the
event itself (i.e., "Are you going to Crown Tourney?" and phrases of
that sort).
Tournament -- An event wherein a tournament
takes place, often a list. Some are very specificly defined events, such as a
Crown or Coronet Tournament, where the next set of rulers for the Kingdom or
Principality are determined. Others may be for prizes, other titles for local
branches, or just for the fun of it.
Trimaris -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Majority of Florida;
outside of the US: Panama, and Antarctica. More details about this Kingdom can
be found at their website: Trimaris.
Trimaris means "Three Seas" according to an anonymous post in email
...
Twelfth Night -- In the West Kingdom, the Coronation
event held in early January (usually the first or second weekend) is called
Twelfth Night. This is based on the Twelve Days of Christmas -- which start on
the 25th of December, and go for twelve days (we're all familiar with the song,
right? It's based on historical celebrations of Christmas).
Unbelted Fighter -- A fighter who has not
been "belted" -- i.e., is not a member of the Order
of Chivalry. This term does not mean that the fighter doesn't wear (or
cannot wear) a belt, just that they have not been made a Knight
or Master of Arms, with the white belt that is part of the
regalia ... see also Belted Fighter.
University -- In the SCA context, this is an
event held to teach classes. See also Collegium.
Viscount/Viscountess
-- These are the titles granted to a Prince and Princess when they have
completed their reign. The titles are automatic, although normally there is a
ceremony acknowledging the titles and rank. There are a variety of Title
Language Equivalents that can be used for those who wish to use a specific
language for their persona.
War -- A gathering at which the main event
is one or more fighting competitions for large groups of participants, involving
the use of woodlands or other broken terrain and sometimes a mixture of Heavy
Weapons and Light Weapon combat. Wars usually feature
other activities, such as a Merchant's Row and Court.
West, The -- A Kingdom
in the SCA. This Kingdom covers these regions (of the US): Northern California,
part of Nevada, Alaska; and outside of the US: Korea, Japan, the Pacific Rim,
and Australia. More details about this Kingdom can be found at their website: The
West. Historical Note: The name "The West Kingdom" first
started being used after the East Kingdom was founded in June of 1968 (AS III),
to differentiate "The Kingdom" (which is what it was called, if
anything, up to that point) from The East Kingdom. The West Kingdom is the first
Kingdom of the SCA, where it all started ...
Special Thanks, Misc. Notes ... Much of the history noted in this document comes from "The Annotated
History Project", which chronicles the early years of the SCA, with
commentary by many of the folk "who were there". This can be found at
the West Kingdom
History Website, click on the "menu" options, and from there at
the top of the menu is a link to the Annotated History ...
About the author/maintainer of this Glossary: Hirsch von Henford is a member
of the Orders of the Laurel and the Pelican, and a Baron of the Court of the
West, has always lived in the West Kingdom (about half of his time in the SCA in
the Principality of Oertha (Alaska)), has been an active member of the West
Kingdom's College of Heralds for most of his 25(+) years in the SCA. He has
helped create an Annotated History of the West Kingdom (covering the first 12+
years), and is constantly updating the History of the West Kingdom website noted
above with photos and event descriptions, and generally keeping quite busy ...
"To the best of my knowledge, "Ealdormere" means "the
Elder Sea" in the pseudo-Olde English/Latin that the bards favour up
here. Apparently it's a reference to the Great Lakes which surround Southern
Ontario on all sides." -- Paul de Trois-Frontieres
"In the early days, (1979) Alaska had two
groups, Eskalya and Winter's Gate. We were part of the Principality of An Tir.
When An Tir petitioned for kingdom status, Alaska asked to remain part of the
West. That wish was granted. We were then termed the Northern Marches. As we got
closer to principality status, the groups started thinking of a name for the
whole unit; The North being the odds on favorite. However, the heralds vetoed
The North and we went back to the drawing board. Enter Sir Kylson Skyfire. He
was returning by airplane from somewhere Outside, and was reading the airline
magazine. He says one of the articles talked about northern lands and the word oertha.
According to the article, oertha meant "guardian of the North".
He presented the name to the Council of the North and to the
populace where it was approved. Now comes the odd part. We never actually had a
copy of the magazine or the article. The language may be celtic ... we know it
isn't Yupik or Inupiaq eskimo, but we're not sure anymore. There is a welsh word
for north or northern that sounds like it, but ... " -- Annora de Montfort
of Shadowwood
Essentially the pas d'armes is a "challenge a plaisance", meaning
"of peace". One or more defenders, known popularly as the 'tenans',
would make it known that they would hold a particular place on a particular
day 'tel place tel jour...'. Such challenges were designed to showcase the
prowess, courtesy and in general to celebrate the office of knighthood with a
demonstration of arms. -- Brion Thornbird, from his website Chronique,
article titled "What is the Pas d'Armes?"
Special thanks to the Silver Desert Chronicler/Web Minister,
Lady Beatrix zum Dunklenturm -- she has a glossary that she kindly gave me
permission to lift terms/definitions from ... Also thanks to Herr Malachais von
Morgenstern, Emma Westbrook, Grainne Gelleo of Locksley (An Tir), and a variety
of other folk for a lot of suggestions/corrections.