We’ve written before on technologys' effect on our discipline, and We’ve another snippet that has real potential for adding to the production of period hilts and blades … or at least practice-only resin ones.
We’re fully for any modern advance that can be worn under helmet, gorget or body armour that allows us to be fully protected against thrust and cut … and thus allow us to really ‘step into’ the full-contact fight … with the expectation of being able to step out of the ring afterwards.
Part of the challenge and ‘romance’ of historical swordplay is to ‘recreate’ as much as is possible the “feel” of the art – how did “real swords” sit in the hand, how did they move, and how were they used.
We fear that if we as a community (armourers and fighters) constantly ‘play’ with the balance, weight and ‘grip feel’ of our blades in order to get the lightest, strongest and fastest-moving blade possible – we may be cheating our art, and our true understanding of what it meant to be a swordfighter in (your choice) century.
Do you want a challenge as to if you’re a swordfighter that can effectively use proper technique in a challenging situation, notwithstanding the sword in your hand? Before your next bout – exchange swords with your opponent!
Historical Moves in a Historical Venue
THÜRINGER ALLGEMEINE (Germany) 08 September 13 Waltershausen: Mittelalterfest auf Schloss Tenneberg (Wieland Fischer)
The ‘Freidigen’ group of small town Waltershausen is in the enviable position of being able to demonstrate the swordplay disciplines of Talhoffer and Liechtenauer within a venue in which both those Masters would have felt quite at home – historic Schloss Tenneberg .
We so-o-o envy our European peers at times. They’re being able to train and spar within rooms and courtyards that (probably) saw our rediscovered arts in real use must be a great motivator when it comes to trying to make sure that you’re keeping things truly historical.
'Lusty Lads ... Loose!'
BOLTON NEWS (UK) 02 September 13 Bolton archers' role in historic medieval battle (Joanne Rowe)
The Bolton Longbow Archers are trying to keep their own medieval ‘martial art’ tradition alive within their back yard. They have a long and honourable tradition as ‘long bow men’ to the Crown, most notably during the Battle of Flodden 500 years ago. It was there against the Scot invaders that the ‘lusty lads of Flodden’ were later recognised in history books (probably just the English ones) with “The gallantry of the Lancashire men at the memorable battle of Flodden Field has at all times been a subject of exultation on the part of inhabitants of this county.”
Archery enthusiast and local longbow expert Jason Stokes indicates that there is a renewed interest in the traditional longbow and that ‘many clubs and societies being set up around the country’.
You Kids get off of my Lawn! Dangnabbit!
THE GAZETTE (Hemel Hempstead, UK) 28 August 13 It’s joust the right time to saddle up for a genuine medieval experience in Gaddesden Place
What We said for the Germans above about fighting in historical venues?
Well, our English peers are not without similar options.
At the Centre of Horseback Combat Karl Greenwood and company will instruct you in the disciplines of horseback archery and jousting (in front of the Georgian mansion house no less) – and stunt riding too if you are of such a mind.
We found it interesting to read how they choose their horses that they use for training and shows:
“We choose our horses for the character they show. They have to have personality.
“We look for the ones that are curious, the ones that are inquisitive and always in your face.
“What also attracts me to the horses is the connection you make with them – establishing and maintaining that bond of trust and respect”.
We can only hope that they choose their students with the same care!
Best Title of the Month
THE FRISKY (New York, New York) 27 August 13 Kickass Woman Of The Day: Samantha Swords, Winner Of The World Jousting Tournament (Winona Dimeo-Ediger)
Samantha Catto-Mott gets her due for winning the longsword competition within the World Jousting Invitational in New Zealand.
We don’t know how many people compete in the New Zealand trials, but Ms Catto-Mott has announced that there’s a new way of doing business on the salle floor.
Snippets
And from the ‘size is important’ files, we have craftsman Emad Ghalghay’s efforts as highlighted this week in blade-friendly Abu Dhabi.
"I felt sad because somebody made the biggest sandwich, somebody made the biggest pizza - I made this for him to cut it."
Plan, print and parry. Modern technology is making some swords easier to use ... but is that a good thing?