Melchior talks Crypto (codes & ciphers)
Below is a listing of classes I have taught at Atlantian University. I have also taught many classes at smaller, non-A&S-focused, events. I've also lost track of the number of times I've taught these classes on-line. If you would like a particular class just let me know. I'm also happy to do 1:1 sessions on-line.
  1. Survey Class: Cryptography through the middle-ages
    University Session #94, September 17, 2016
    This class is a whirlwind tour of cryptography of the middle ages. There is a lot of information to cover in 50 minutes. Consider this class a 'full contact lecture'. Enjoy!

    Timeline: this is an eternal work in progress. TIMELINE

  2. Deep Dive: Breaking period ciphers
    University Session #97, September 16, 2017
    In this class we will be focusing on two ciphers: one substitution and one 'transposition'. The ciphers will change between class presentations so there's always a reason to retake it!
    This class is practical. We will be spending the majority of the class working through a series ciphers with take home challenges to tease the brain.
  3. Expanding Knowledge: Building new ciphers using period techniques.
    University Session #99, June 16, 2018
    This class provide a brief overview of the history of cryptography, a review of the documented (in period) methods of encryption and will conclude with a class exercise to create our own unique cipher based on those period methods. The cipher system will be recorded and forwarded to all class members that would like to receive a copy. This will provide each class with their own personal cipher system to use with each other as they see fit.
  4. Ciphers at the edge of Period; Secrets from the King's strongbox
    University Session #100, February 2, 2019
    Cryptography was experiencing a boom in public awareness right at 1600. By the time of Charles I; puzzle solving and sending secret messages was popular pass time with the upper class and even the Royalty. Charles I even kept a strongbox containing enciphered and deciphered. I hope he wins the battle of Naseby and nobody breaks open that box! Oops. The ciphers in use at the turn of the century provide insight into the development of ciphers throughout Period. Would you like to know more?
  5. Deep Dive: Atlantian Speed Cipher - ATBASH
    University Session #101, June 15, 2019
    An Atlantian 'Speed Tournament' is simple in execution, effective in implementation, serves a very specific purpose. The ATBASH cipher follows similar rules to similar ends. In this class we take a deeper look at ATBASH's history and its utility.
  6. Runic Ciphers
    University Session #103 - February 1, 2020
    On a mist-laden morning in Östergötland, around 800CE, a stone was raised. A monument was finished to make memories last for another hundred generations and more. Within this text, however, there are unusual symbols and what seems to be hidden messages... and the runestone at Rök is just one example. What knowledge lies beneath such scratched lines on wood and stone? Would you like to know more? This class will briefly explore the history of runic systems, cryptography, and the implementation of runic ciphers in period.
  7. Cryptography 101
    University Virtual Session - 2021
    This course presents an overview of period techniques used to hide sensitive information. We will cover a variety of ciphers and encoding techniques, with examples, and historical context. Materials are provided.
  8. 3 Atlantian Ciphers: A Sampling of Unique Ciphers Developed Using Period Techniques
    University Session # 109 - February 5, 2022
    In this class, I introduce three ciphers of my design based on period examples. Each cipher is evaluated in three steps. First, I review the source material that the cipher is drawn from. Next, I present my implementation of the cipher technique. Finally, I offer an example of the implemented cipher. Once each cipher has been discussed I will open the floor to discussion on how period cryptography might be used in the modern middle ages.
  9. Bellaso's reciprocal ciphers
    University Session # 110b - June 12, 2022
    Giovan Battista Bellaso published several influential papers with unique (if derivative) ciphers in the 1500s. In this class, we will review Bellaso's reciprocal ciphers, their evolution, implementation, and a few novel modifications to the system. This is a 'NO MATH' & 'no prerequisites' class. Digital handouts are available.
  10. Cryptography in the Middle Ages
    Pennsic 49 - August 5, 2022
    This course is a survey of cryptography up to around 1650. We will review the history and evolution of cryptography in general and look at several cryptographic systems in-depth to provide a working understanding of how these ciphers are employed. Handouts are limited but digital copies are available.
  11. Introduction to Period Cryptography
    University Session # 113b - June 11, 2023
    This course is a survey of cryptography up to around 1650. We will review the history and evolution of cryptography in general and look at several novel (period structure and design but developed by me) cryptographic systems in-depth to provide a working understanding of how these ciphers are employed. This is a no math introductory class, with no prerequisites, which anyone with an interest in the science of period cryptography might find interesting. Update: once this class has been completed there will be an optional preview session concerning the ciphers used by Mary Queen of Scots.
  12. Bellaso's reciprocal ciphers
    University Session # 114b - September 17, 2023
    Giovan Battista Bellaso published several influential papers with unique (if derivative) ciphers in the 1500s. In this class, we will review Bellaso's reciprocal ciphers, their evolution, implementation, and a few novel modifications to the system. This is an intermediate-level class where we will very lightly touch on some math concepts but no prior/specialized background is required. Having taken one of the introductory/101 cryptography classes at Atlantian University or Pennsic is recommended but by no means a necessity.

Handouts:

Some of these are my slides from classes, some are simple one-pagers, others are more substantial. I have found errors and omissions in my own work and will be correcting things over time. Please feel free to reach out if you have a question, comment, or discover any errors. I will do my best to improve the quality of the content over time. All that being said please do keep in mind that cryptography touches on many different facets of period life: time, location, language, zeitgeist, political situations, etc. There is a lot to cover and it is impractical to attempt to cover it all. If you notice a particular event, example, etc that is not covered I may still be able to help you research that area, there just may not have been time or space to cover it. Anyway, here you are: (in no particular order - list regularly updated)