Notes on Balanced Fencing Part 1: Two Governing Philosophies

Over the next few weeks my Gotham Swords classes (Concepts & Techniques, Messer) will examine some core ideas about fencing and how to apply those lessons during free-play bouts. This post is meant to serve as an introduction and brief study guide to the many subjects we'll be discussing, including:

• Governing Philosophies
• Four Principal Considerations
• Key Components
• Timing of an Offensive Action
• General Considerations of the Engagement

In this first post, we'll be looking at what I like to refer to as our Governing Philosophies. What I love about these two statements is how they sit neatly on a fine line between the theoretical and practical. You'll notice that on the surface they offer some pretty solid advice: "expertise is good", and "don't get hit". Yet when broken down these sentiments offer more than mere superficial remarks: they serve as a reflection on the art of fencing itself.

1.
Der Kunst beseigt die Stärke.
“The art conquers strength.”

The idea that art conquerors strength implies that time spent on meaningful and mindful training will out-benefit brute-strength. 

Oafish strength regularly begins as an attractive alley in youth, often yielding what seems to be quick rewards. Yet this type of strength wanes with time, slows with age. The rewards of this approach quickly diminish as the never ending arms race of pure-strength becomes a heavy burden working against the user rather than with them.

In contrast, art is plastic: rooted around a lifelong journey of exploration, investigation, able to adapt to the artist as they mature and age. Art is an internal and external game that requires meaning, reflection, and growth. Ultimately, when we engage in art, we engage in a collaborative process of creation from which we collectively benefit.

2.
Treffen ohne getroffen zuwerden.
“To strike without being struck in return.”

While I can think of no greater way to sum up the most practical advice regarding fencing, this phrase also serves an important reminder of where this art comes from. As Lehrer Sir William Hope is keen to point out in his NEW METHOD, the term "fencing" has its roots in the word "Defen[s]e", as in the preservation of one's life against sharp swords.

The German word Treffen literally means "to encounter", in this context it expresses the idea to "reach (with a hit, push, throw) and more or less great force and to injure/damage a target." Pretty mean stuff.

Practicing the art of fencing should be a fun and engaging process. Yet we should should at no time be dishonest regarding the ugly history and original purpose of these much tamed devices. Our classes frequently focus on etiquette and certain sword-handling protocols as a sort of recognition of this past. Saluting, respectful handling and passing of the sword, etc., these acts of courtesy are a sign to our collaborating artists that we're here to work with them, a promise that we'll take care of each other when we're training.

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This concludes part one of Notes on Balanced Fencing. Keep an eye out for part two, in which we will begin to explore more practical lessons, including Four Principal Considerations and Key Components of Balanced Fencing.