HIMURA KENSHIN
How did you get involved with these Medieval weirdos?
I've known several members of the SCA for a few years, but it wasn't until
just recently that I decided to join them through the University of New
South Wales (hence I'm what they call an Augustinian). Before I
joined the SCA, I was a bit reserved because it is primarily concerned
with pre-1600 European culture, whereas I'm more interested in feudal Japanese
culture. However, I was told that although there aren't too many people
who extend any further East than the Middle East, that Asian culture was
certainly not any less welcome in the society (but simply not strongly
supported due to minor interest). This is mainly because the SCA started
as an interest group for medieval Europe, but the official definition of
what the SCA now encompasses is, "anything between the year 600 and
1600." And Japan certainly had a rich history during those times.
Why did you join these guys?
1. I'm interested in Japanese culture, both modern and ancient. I used
to live in Japan, ya know. Click
here to read about my experiences.
2. I like to dress up in funky costumes. :-) Click
here to view my Costume Play page.
Who is Himura Kenshin?
Animé and manga fans will instantly recognise that I have taken
this name from Watsuki Nobuhiro's Rurouni
Kenshin. However, let me assure you that other than the name, my
Himura Kenshin persona has no other relation with 'Hitokiri Battousai'.
Many members of the SCA build a medieval 'persona' for themselves, and
part of that is giving ourselves what's commonly called an "SCA name."
These tend to be names that are either taken directly from historical records,
or names that could have easily existed back in those days. Some other
SCA names include Anluan, Gwillym Gruffydd Benbras and good
ol' Rothgar. Himura Kenshin merely a name that could have existed.
About Kenshin
Note: This is purely fictional. I not that delusional.
Yet.
Kenshin was born Himura Shinta in Kyoto in the year 1580. A descendant
of a proud samurai lineage, Shinta renamed himself Kenshin when he fought
in the campaign against the Shinsengumi uprising in 1598. Afterwards, Kenshin
embarked on a Musha-shugyoh (Warrior Pilgrimage) with his childhood friend
and comrade-at-arms during the war, Saitou Tsuyoshi.
Their travels soon take them to the far West. Kenshin and Tsuyoshi (whom
many simply call "Yoshi") are now guests at the Kingdom of Rowany.
Kenshin's Klothes (bad pun, I know)
The SCA doesn't just study ancient history, it selectively recreates it.
Part of being a member of the SCA is dressing up like your persona.
My costume was incredibly easy to make -- actually, I didn't have to
make anything myself! All I did was grab my old Aikido Dogi and bought
a pair of blue hakama (Japanese trousers) to fit over them. I bought
a wooden boken to complete the look.
I first wore this costume at the Newcomer's Feast on March 18, 2000.
I didn't bring a camera, but a few other people did, so hopefully I can
borrow some photos from other people and scan them up here! ;)
I'll be sure to bring one next time though.
Disclaimer: This page has no official affiliation
with the SCA.
Go to Kenshin's home
page!
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