systems, these were known as gryps.All were based on a handful of key ac-
tions: reaching out to grab the opponent’s hilt or arm; striking with the
pommel or guard; slipping the blade against or between an opponent’s
forearms; using the second hand to hold the blade while binding, striking,
or slicing; and of course tripping and kicking. Wrestling or grappling
moves were included, along with swordsmanship, in the curriculum of
every master and school.
Today, Hollywood theatrical sword fights and displays arranged by
professional stunt-actors and stage-combat performers typically present a
form of medieval swordsmanship that bears only superficial resemblance to
the nature of the historical craft. The proper martial use of sword and
shield or long-sword is all but absent in most movie and theatrical combat
presentations and live-action performance shows, as well as in fantasy role-
playing societies. The subtle differences in style of use between handling
wider flatter blades and thicker tapering ones are also rarely depicted with
any accuracy in movies and film fights. Yet, historically the diverse forms
of medieval European swords were skillfully employed with a deliberate
methodology. Specific techniques were developed appropriate to the envi-
ronment of the period.
Sophisticated methods for the use of swords were perfected and prac-
ticed for centuries, and their martial legacy was influential and long-
lasting. Today, these arts consist of a collection of reconstructed techniques
based on analysis of surviving historical manuscripts and fighting manu-
als, plus conjecture and analysis of historical arms, armor, art, and litera-
ture from the period. Today, the modern replication of weapon arts from
the Middle Ages has its own distinct character. In many ways, modern
replication and practice are still in their infancy. It is a martial art form
that must be viewed within its own historical and cultural contexts. No
historical schools of medieval fighting arts exist today to pass on their
learning or tradition, and enthusiasts have had to rediscover these skills on
their own. The chief tools for this are examination of historical arms and
armor; extensive training and test-cutting with historically accurate replica
weapons; research in the surviving historical manuals and texts; and
earnest, realistic contact sparring with safe simulated weapons. Through
physical exercises, academic research, and pure supposition, many dedi-
cated individuals and groups are working to rebuild these lost skills and
reclaim our Western martial heritage.
John ClementsSee alsoDueling; Europe; Knights; Masters of Defence; Wrestling and
Grappling: Europe
References
Castle, Egerton. 1969. Schools and Masters of Fence: From the Middle Ages578 Swordsmanship, European Medieval