A University of Chicago class simulating the 1492 papal conclave was unexpectedly impacted by the real-life death of Pope Francis. The class, nicknamed "pope class" or "pope LARP," involves students role-playing cardinals to elect a new pope. This year's simulation, the 15th run by Professor Ada Palmer, saw a student named Danny Kind, an Ashkenazi Jew from Orlando, emerge as a surprising contender, despite his unconventional background and attire.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.