From fantasy novels and cosplay to Renaissance festivals and roleplaying games, the love for medieval weapons runs deep. But how were they actually used?
In The Use of Medieval Weaponry, historical fencing instructor and competitive fighter, Eric Lowe brings together the words of over a dozen medieval masters, as well as the practical experience of contemporary historical European martial artists, to answer this deceptively simple question.
For the first time, learn to see weapons from the perspective, not of ancient generals or modern museum curators, but the people holding the sword.
Compare weapons in combat, consider the pros and cons of different types and styles, and discover how medieval warriors adapted their art to their favourite tools.
Whether you are an armchair enthusiast or a fighter ready to step up your game, Lowe takes you inside the world of medieval martial arts as no one else can.
Innehållsförteckning
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
A NOTE ON TRANSLATIONS
PREFACE
CHAPTER ONE
We’re all sword geeks here
CHAPTER TWO
How do we know any of this?
CHAPTER THREE
Of royal blood: longsword
CHAPTER FOUR
Excellent and useful: sword and buckler
CHAPTER FIVE
Queen of swords: sword and shield
CHAPTER SIX
The forgotten: sword and cloak, sword and dagger, and two swords
CHAPTER SEVEN
Malice and art: knives and daggers
CHAPTER EIGHT
Many obligations: greatswords
CHAPTER NINE
The unseen: what about axes and maces?
CHAPTER TEN
Arm’s length: thrusting polearms
CHAPTER ELEVEN
Grace and results: cutting polearms
CHAPTER TWELVE
Taking hits: fencing in, and against, armor
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Honor in wars: military fencing
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Final thoughts
WORKS CITED
INDEX
Om författaren
Eric Lowe is a multi-weapon medalist in all three of the major competitive disciplines in historical European martial arts: sparring, test cutting, and historical technique. He is a lawyer, middle school teacher, vintage dance instructor with over 20 years of experience, and founder and lead instructor at Swordwind Historical Swordsmanship in Charlotte, North Carolina.