The research project 'Live Action Role Playing Games in School Education', its pilot study beginning in November 2009, is designed to test the effectiveness of LARPs in teaching History and Polish Literature at high-school level. Taking into account previous research on educational drama, as well as the characteristics of LARP as entertainment, we shall assume that LARP can be a highly effective teaching tool. By means of controlled experiments in schools, this hypothesis will be subjected to empirical testing.
The setting of the 'Dzikie Pola' ('Wild Plains') RPG is based on the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth of the 17th century. With thorough descriptions of the geography, law and politics, as well as the Sarmatian culture and mentality, 'Dzikie Pola' creates a multifaceted image of an aristocratic state and society, revealing its uniqueness and significance for Polish cultural identity. What is, then, the Sarmatian legacy seen through the lens of the 'Dzikie Pola' RPG? Four aspects will be discussed in an analysis of the handbooks for the two editions (1997 and 2005/2008). Firstly, the Sarmatian-aristocrat stereotype and its variations. Secondly, the ideals, values and norms shown as typical of an aristocratic society. Thirdly, the image of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth as a political, economic and military power. Finally, it shall be noted how the handbook for the second edition reaches beyond the game itself, encouraging players to further research the Sarmatian tradition and incorporate its elements into their real lives.
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