To mark the 1,000th anniversary of the pivotal Battle of Clontarf between the Irish forces of Brian Boru and the Viking army of Sitric Silkenbeard, a new army of Wiki editors and tweeters is being raised to re-enact the battle digitally.
The battle took place all day on 23 April 1014 and it is legendary for its scale and ferocity.
It resulted in thousands of deaths on both sides and the death of Boru, following his victory over the rebelling forces of Silkenbeard of Dublin and the King of Leinster, Mael Morda mac Murchada.
To mark the historic occasion, Wikipedia is supporting the first ever Irish live Wiki editing event in Dublin’s Science Gallery on 19 April from 2-5 pm to improve the Battle of Clontarf Wiki pages.
There is also an ongoing blow-by-blow re-enactment of the run-up to the battle and the battle itself on Twitter @1014retold for everyone to follow.
‘A sort of Irish Game of Thrones’
Described by top tweeter, comedian and TV presenter Dara O’Briain as reading “a sort of Irish Game of Thrones”, the Twitter feed offers perspectives on the battle from a variety of characters, including Boru, mac Murchada and Silkenbeard, as well as lesser known participants.
The online events are being facilitated by 1014 Retold, a digital storytelling project which aims to bring the tale of the Battle of Clontarf to life for a modern-day audience using digital tools and social media.
The organisers are actively looking for volunteers to participate in the Wiki live editing event. No special skills are needed, just an interest in learning how Wiki pages are edited and published. Those interested in participating may register online.
“It’s fantastic to be involved in Wikipedia’s first Irish Edit-athon event, especially as we’re working on the Battle of Clontarf Wiki entries for the 1,000th anniversary,” said Alan Doherty of the 1014 Retold project team.
“The battle was a culminating event in Irish history and we’re hoping to bring it to life on social media to enhance understanding of its significance.”
Viking weaponry image via Shutterstock
