The Ultimate Guide to Fifteenth Century Swordfighting and Close Quarter Combat

The art of swordfighting has always been captivating, representing both skill and power. In the fifteenth century, this martial art reached its peak with the creation of detailed manuals dedicated to training in the intricate techniques of close quarter combat. Join us on a journey back in time as we delve into the fascinating world of swordfighting during the fifteenth century and explore the ancient manuscripts that instruct us in the ways of this noble combat art.

Unveiling the Secrets of Swordfighting Masters

The fifteenth century saw the development of the first comprehensive manuals on swordfighting. These documents, penned by renowned masters such as Fiore dei Liberi, Johannes Liechtenauer, and Fiore Furlano de'i Liberi da Premariacco, provide detailed instructions on sword techniques, grappling, and unarmed combat.

These manuals, which have been meticulously preserved over the centuries, contain hand-drawn illustrations showcasing various combat positions and intricate movements. They offer insights into the strategies, principles, and philosophies of fifteenth century swordfighting, providing valuable lessons applicable even in modern martial arts disciplines.

Medieval Combat: A Fifteenth-Century Manual of Swordfighting and Close-Quarter Combat

by Hans Talhoffer(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21232 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	294 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	22 pages
Item Weight	:	2.2 pounds

FREE

Techniques from the Masters

The techniques described in these manuals are both elegant and deadly. Masters like Fiore dei Liberi developed tactical approaches to combat, focusing on the use of the longsword. His manual, "Fior di Battaglia," explores the principles of using leverage, timing, and distance to defeat opponents. It also delves into essential skills such as grappling, dagger fighting, and unarmed strikes.

On the other hand, Johannes Liechtenauer's manuscript, "Zettel," emphasizes the use of the longsword in personal combat. Liechtenauer introduced concepts like "Fühlen" (feeling) and "Abschneiden" (cutting off),which refer to reading an opponent's intent and intercepting their attacks. These principles formed the foundation of the German School of Swordsmanship and were widely adopted by European martial artists during the fifteenth century.

The Importance of Close Quarter Combat

Close quarter combat, often referred to as "half-swording" or "armored combat," was an essential aspect of sword fighting during the fifteenth century. Manuals dedicated to this style, such as Fiore dei Liberi's "Armizare," demonstrate how to use the sword as both a cutting weapon and a grappling tool, providing detailed instructions for fighting in armor and countering various armed opponents.

Close quarter combat required specific techniques, such as half-sword grips, throws, and armored strikes, due to the limited mobility and protection offered by armor. Mastery of these techniques was crucial for knights and soldiers engaged in medieval warfare, where armored combat was a common occurrence on the battlefield.

Rediscovering a Lost Art

The fifteenth century manuals present us with a unique opportunity to explore and revive ancient combat techniques. Modern martial artists, historical enthusiasts, and scholars have dedicated themselves to studying these manuscripts, diligently deciphering their complex language and experimenting with the techniques described within.

Thanks to their efforts, we can now witness the resurgence of fifteenth century swordfighting schools and the rebirth of a forgotten era of martial arts. Organizations such as the International Medieval Combat Federation (IMCF) organize tournaments where participants showcase their mastery of fifteenth century swordfighting, paying homage to the masters of the past.

The fifteenth century was undoubtedly a golden age for swordfighting and close quarter combat. The manuals created by the masters of the time provide us with invaluable insights into the techniques, strategies, and philosophies of this ancient martial art. By studying and practicing these techniques, we can bring the art of swordfighting back to life, preserving a rich part of our history and honoring the skilled warriors of the past.

Medieval Combat: A Fifteenth-Century Manual of Swordfighting and Close-Quarter Combat

by Hans Talhoffer(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21232 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	294 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	22 pages
Item Weight	:	2.2 pounds

FREE

“[A] remarkable how-to . . . offers freeze-frame instructions on medieval martial arts using swords, shields, poleaxes, daggers and wrestling” (Publishers Weekly).
 
Written by German fencing master Hans Talhoffer in 1467, this book illustrates the intricacies of the medieval art of fighting, covering both the “judicial duel” (an officially sanctioned fight to resolve a legal dispute) and personal combat.
 
Combatants in the Middle Ages used footwork, avoidance, and the ability to judge and manipulate timing and distance to exploit and enhance the sword’s inherent cutting and thrusting capabilities. These skills were supplemented with techniques for grappling, wrestling, kicking and throwing the opponent, as well as disarming him by seizing his weapon. Every attack contained a defense and every defense a counterattack. Talhoffer reveals the techniques for wrestling, unarmored fighting with the long sword, poleaxe, dagger, sword and buckler, and mounted combat.
 
This unparalleled guide to medieval combat, illustrated with 268 contemporary images, provides a glimpse of real people fighting with skill, sophistication and ruthlessness. This is one of the most popular and influential manuals of its kind.
 
“This superb treatise, amply illustrated, provides valuable insight into the real world of medieval combat. Magnificent!” —Books Monthly