Historically Speaking

Historically Speaking is a team of historical re creators and educators who, through first person interpretation, endeavour to bring to life various aspects of the Middle Ages for you and your students.  As specialists in the Middle Ages, we have developed a wide breadth and depth of knowledge, and have done  extensive and careful research about the material we present, in order to give your students as authentic an experience of the Middle Ages as possible.  We use quality replicated artifacts and costumes (and even some period artifacts) many of which we let the students pass around and touch. Our presentations are tailored to support specific areas of the new Ontario Curriculuum.  We offer half day programs which explore the daily life, customs and technology of the Middle Ages with your students.

We will come to your school in full period costume. We offer a choice of presentations on either the High Middle Ages, Elizabethan or Viking times both at primary and secondary school levels.  Though many of our programs are designed for grade 4 classes, we have also done a number of custom presentations for high school History and English classes. Typical Grade 4 Middle Ages Program This program consists of a half day presentation designed for a class of up to 30 students. Greetings and Introduction Period Dance A Crusader's Story Arms and Armor Period Game Followed by two 40 (approx) minute workshops: Gingerbrede                         Chainmail

Descriptions of the Presentations Arms and Armor How heavy is a suit of chainmail, really? What does a sword really look and feel like?  Your students get a chance to find out for themselves. Chainmail They've seen and tried it on; now they can try to make their own!  Your students will discover just how long it takes to make a chain mail shirt by starting their very own. A Crusader's Story Lady Eveleen recounts the enthusiasm and trials of the early Crusaders on their way to Jerusalem. Gingerbrede This workshop covers the subject of food in the Middle Ages.  Your students will help prepare and sample a simple medieval gingerbread recipe. Period Dance We will teach your students a simple circle dance popular both at court and at village festivals. Period Game People from all walks of life worked very hard from sunup to sun down.  We will teach your students a popular feast day game. Renaissance Songs (if time permits) Listen and learn some courtly and silly songs.  We will discuss the importance of music in everday Medieval life.

Vanessa Weideman has a BA in History and Women's Studies from UWO.  She has been doing school demonstrations for about 10 years.  She portrays Eveleen, who is sometimes a lady in waiting to Queen Elizabeth I and sometimes a merchants wife from Flanders. Drew Jenner has a degree in Mechanical Engineering from UWO and has been doing educational presentations for 15 years.  He portrays two individuals; Cerdic Thorgrimsson, an 11th century Anglo Norseman living in England around the time of William the Conqueror and Sir John Harris, and Elizabethan nobleman and Provost with a penchant for practising his dueling skills whenever he can.

Please note that we have presentations and workshops which are not all listed on this web site.  We are willing to be flexible to fit your specific needs.  Please contact us for more information. Our fees are:  $150 per half day program $250 for two half day programs

Contact Information

Cerdic Thorgrimsson:  Fierce Warrior

Name:

Vanessa Weideman

For a collection of recipes and feast ideas click here

hspeaking@yahoo.com

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