Female reenactors as soldiers?

[Ammianus]

*sigh* So this topic has come up...
I'm going to stick my neck out and I hope not to offend or annoy anyone too much in the process.
Looking beyond the "you have to because of equal rights"...

I joined Comitatus because I had an interest in Late Roman miltary history. I wanted to learn about using the equiptment and I also generally wanted to start reconstruction/re-enactment. And I am female. Well that's a setback for a start!
I was plesantly suprised when I found out they allowed women to portray legionaries. I work very very hard at shows to appear like a man. I never take my helmet off in a show. When talking to public just after we have finished a show I have found that often people do not realise I am female until I take off my helmet/hear my voice when I talk to them. Or if they are aware and ask the inevitable "did they have female soilders" then I explain it to them. I am always aware of my actions and how I carry myself - I have to be.
In the evenings when the shows are over I change into my dress and enjoy the evenings being my born self around the fire. On top of infantry I am now working on cavalry - training with a new horse for the group next year. I am down at the stables every week in the wind and the rain. It is not something I take lightly.

I completely understand why people argue that it would not be authentic to let women join in,and if women are doing so then you cannot be truely authentic. I sometimes have an argument within myself as to whether I should do it or not, but at the end of the day it's something I enjoy and I want to learn more through experience as well.
In some ways portraying Late Roman legionary is easier for a woman than an Early Roman - I wouldn't consider doing that. Even some men don't seem to fill the armour! (sorry!)

I would argue that if a woman can competently use the weaponry and artillery, whilst portraying a male figure (not fantasizing about being a female warrior) then I don't see why that can't be done.

This is a never-ending and hard question of debate that comes back time and time again, and I've probably phrased things badly! :?

From what i have heard most women in most groups are romantically involved with a member of that group...not many singles joining re-enactment groups if you ask me...

I joined as a single female interested in the history, not becuase of any romantic involvement :lol:
My partner doesn't do re-enactment. Simple.

Sorry if I've rambled. Cheers.
Amy


PS. spot me :wink: