Costume selection activities set within a historical period, often the European Middle Ages, allow individuals to create virtual or physical representations of characters from that era. These activities encompass a range of digital applications and physical play scenarios where participants choose garments, accessories, and hairstyles to embody roles such as knights, royalty, peasants, or mythical creatures within a medieval context. An example includes online browser games where users drag and drop clothing items onto an avatar to create a specific historical or fantastical look.
The practice of creating medieval-themed characters through costume selection provides opportunities for creative expression and engagement with history. Benefits can include the development of visual design skills, exploration of historical fashion trends, and fostering imagination. The allure of this theme draws on romanticized notions of chivalry, courtly life, and fantastical elements present in the cultural perception of the Middle Ages, providing a rich source of inspiration and escapism.