They
expounded on philosophies, reported on the newest art and music particular to
the Enlightenment, and explained the latest scientific findings, all while
enjoying cookies and Martinelli cider. It was the
11th Annual Enlightenment Era Festival for the honors sophomore class at Santa
Ynez Valley Union High School and this year’s event was staged at St. Marks in
the Valley Episcopal Church in Los Olivos on Dec. 17.
Approximately 45 students from two classes participated.
Mingling
with parents and student guides, distinguished guests included notables from
the Age of Enlightenment, in complete costume, such as Isaac Newton, Queen
Anne, and Thomas Hobbs. The parents were required to visit with the
dignitaries, quiz them thoroughly on their knowledge of the character they
portrayed, and then hand in the questionnaires for grading.
“It’s
been well received every year,” said Chris Mullin, history teacher. He and
Brett Piersma team teach advanced placement
sophomores at the high school and this year’s topic is European history. “Our
focus has been issues of that time and the heads of state. The students have
learned about how our government came into existence and how the philosophies
of that time influences thinkers of today,” added Piersma.
In
addition to the questionnaires, parents were able to watch presentations by the
students, which included piano, cello and violin solos; period dances and
ballets to music by Vivaldi and Bach; a rambunctious philosophical debate about
the merits of various forms of government; and Shakespeare recitations.
Preparations
for the event, besides rounding up the various period costumes, included
selecting an historic individual and then studying that person’s contribution
to history well enough to expound upon it when asked questions by parents and
other students.
One
parent, Debby Bebernes, whose daughter, Jenna was
dressed as Queen Mary, explained that the students in the class spend as much
as 20 hours a week doing history homework.
“This
is a great way to make it all come to life and give meaning to all that
effort,” she added.
At
the end of the program the students were applauded by more than 100 parents and
guests attending the event.
“The students embrace learning,” Piersma
said, after the last presentation. “And we have you parents to thank for that.
It’s been a wonderful evening and we hope all of you have truly been
enlightened by these exceptional students.”