The Use of Medieval Weaponry

by Eric Lowe

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781912807260
Publisher:	AEON BOOKS LTD
Publication date:	11/30/2020
Pages:	286
Sales rank:	770,367
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

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 twenty years of experience, and founder and lead instructor at Swordwind Historical Swordsmanship in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments ix

A Note on Translations xi

Preface xv

Chapter 1 We're all sword geeks here 1

Chapter 2 How do we know any of this? 5

Chapter 3 Of royal blood: longsword 17

Chapter 4 Excellent and useful: sword and buckler 41

Chapter 5 Queen of swords: sword and shield 71

Chapter 6 The forgotten: sword and cloak, sword and dagger, and two swords 97

Chapter 7 Malice and art: knives and daggers 131

Chapter 8 Many obligations: greatswords 147

Chapter 9 The unseen: what about axes and maces? 171

Chapter 10 Arm's length: thrusting polearms 179

Chapter 11 Grace and results: cutting polearms 203

Chapter 12 Taking hits: fencing in, and against, armor 219

Chapter 13 Honor in wars: military fencing 243

Chapter 14 Final thoughts 257

Works Cited 259

Index 263

Editorial Reviews

From fantasy novels and cosplay to Renaissance festivals and roleplaying games, the love for medieval weapons runs deep. But how were they actually used?

From the Publisher