Digitalizing experiential celebrations in the early modern civic space: A methodological investigation of augmented reality as an interpretative tool

Giovanna Guidicini

doi:10.1093/llc/fqab055

Abstract

Abstract This article investigates the methodological suitability of Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR and AR) to the recreation of early modern civic spectacles. These are presented as instances of controlled engagement of a (royal) user with a civic space temporarily ‘augmented’ by the engaging superimposition of structures, performances, and haptic experiences – hence fulfilling Ronald Azuma’s definition of AR. The writings of theorists of space and Cross Reality innovators provide the basis for a comparative discussion of practical applications of VR and AR in history-related fields (archaeology, history, education, and gaming and entertainment). For their methodological similarities to civic festivals in addressing the complexity of human experiences in augmented spaces, AR-based virtual reconstructions are demonstrated to be cognate and ductile investigative tools.

Highlights

Representing and Understanding Geometrical and Human SpaceThe potential of space to be represented and understood through the lens of human re-interpretation has attracted much experimentation over the centuries
Modern civic ceremonies gave visible, tactile form to the multiple identities of a civic community, grounding its inhabitants’ sense of self—as politically active burgesses, devout believers, economically invested guild members, trustworthy subjects, battleready activists, and more—through choreographed experiences of enhanced physical reality. They promoted the construction of temporary spatial superstructures
Triumphal entries present suitable elements for comparison, being centred around the advent of a royal guest for whom the augmented civic experience was built, and whose moving presence activated many of the addedon elements

Summary

Introduction

Representing and Understanding Geometrical and Human Space. The potential of space to be represented and understood through the lens of human re-interpretation has attracted much experimentation over the centuries. Scholars and artists superimposed God’s design upon the existing world, to help human minds make sense of the natural in the light of the supernatural and vice-versa, and represent it visually to an often illiterate audience.

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Conclusion