Photo By Natalie Baram

Brendon Yu ‘27

REPORTER

In October, the 12th-grade English classes embarked on an exciting trip to the Renaissance Fair in Mount Hope, Pennsylvania. This trip allowed the seniors to immerse themselves in the culture of the Renaissance Era, which ranged from the early 1450s to the 1650s.

Even two weeks after the trip, seniors continue to reminisce about the delicious food from the eclectic eateries that offered everything from sour pickles to juicy turkey legs. The fair also featured an array of carnival games and rides, daily performances, and a multitude of small artisan shops that sold a variety of handmade jewelry and clothes. Given only four hours to explore the 30-acre space, no student could participate in every activity, but every student had at least one part of the trip that they enjoyed the most. For example, senior Stella Tucker stated that she loved “exploring the local stores, in particular a tea shop, that felt warm and welcoming like a mountain cabin.” Senior Tinley Sutch described how, “the Wild Boar swing ride was the most entertaining.” Sutch also observed adults wearing beautiful historical attires that enhanced the Renaissance experience.

The organizers of the trip, the English Department, also recounted their own experience. Mrs. Janet Holguín, a returning Fair-goer and an expert on the Renaissance, discussed the importance of the field trip and how a knowledge of the time period aids students in their understanding of literature. She said that by learning about the Renaissance period, students are better able to interpret modern and period-style literature, drama, and poetry, all of which contribute to a deeper appreciation of the historical era. She hopes that students will use their exploration of the different styles of acting, music, and entertainment in their own writing assignments.

Ultimately, this annual trip for the 12th-grade English classes provides an educational experience much different than that of the lectures and assignments found in classrooms. It brings history to life and gives students an opportunity to explore the context of many of the literary works they read.