Happy Friday, nerds! Alas that summer is half over already, but lucky for us, nerdery knows no season. Buckle on your sword belts and secure your pointy ears: July Nerd Nite is upon us! Details:
European Styles of Swordsmanship: Through the Centuries
Let’s discuss the history of fencing! Different types of European fencing have existed since about 1300, and are still practiced today. This is an introductory talk on HEMA, which includes discussion on rapier, saber, longsword and more. Certain examples will be available to handle but NOT to fence with.
Kevin Wander completed his undergraduate at MSUM in History and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in 19th century Russian military history. He has a passion for historical fencing and has been fencing since 2015. He is currently the head instructor at the Fargo-Moorhead Historical fencing club and specializes in the 19th century British military saber.
The Linguistic World of Tolkien: How Constructed Languages Shaped Middle-Earth
Ai a mae g’ovannen, mellon nín. Delve into the captivating linguistic realm of J.R.R. Tolkien and discover how his constructed languages shaped the rich tapestry of Middle-Earth, adding depth and authenticity to his legendary universe.
Bethany Mastin is a passionate language enthusiast. While she had no formal linguistics background and is only fluent in one language, she has dabbled in numerous others throughout her life, and among these, none have captivated her more than Tolkien’s Elvish languages. Bethany’s deep fascination with and occasional forays into various languages have nurtured a profound appreciation for the linguistic tapestry woven within Tolkien’s extraordinary world.
…okay so we’re not remaking the movie but Elvish and swords really does sound like LotR. 🙂 PLUS since we’re down one speaker, we’ll play some trivia to even the keel. See your beautiful faces next Wednesday, July 19th, 7PM (doors at 6:30) at Fargo Billiards and Gastropub. Tickets available in advance on Eventbrite, or $10 at the door.
🙂 T
PS- ‘Macil appa!’ is what I googled to be the Quenya phrase for “sword touch”, like ‘Touche!’ in actual fencing. We can ask Bethany if there’s a more apt phrase. 🙂
