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Difference between revisions of "Giacomo di Grassi"
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− | '''Giacomo di Grassi''' was a [[century::16th century]] [[nationality::Italian]] [[fencing master]]. Little is known about the life of this master, but he seems to have been born in Modena, Italy and acquired some fame as a fencing master in his youth. He operated a fencing school in | + | '''Giacomo di Grassi''' was a [[century::16th century]] [[nationality::Italian]] [[fencing master]]. Little is known about the life of this master, but he seems to have been born in Modena, Italy and acquired some fame as a fencing master in his youth. He operated a fencing school in Treviso and apparently traveled around Italy observing the teachings of other schools and masters. |
Ultimately di Grassi seems to have developed his own method, which he laid out in great detail in his 1570 work ''[[Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi)|Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme]]'' ("Discourse on Wielding Arms with Safety"). In 1594, a new edition of his book was printed in London under the title ''His True Arte of Defence''; this edition was orchestrated by an admirer named Thomas Churchyard, who hired I. G. to translated it and I. Iaggard to publish it. | Ultimately di Grassi seems to have developed his own method, which he laid out in great detail in his 1570 work ''[[Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi)|Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme]]'' ("Discourse on Wielding Arms with Safety"). In 1594, a new edition of his book was printed in London under the title ''His True Arte of Defence''; this edition was orchestrated by an admirer named Thomas Churchyard, who hired I. G. to translated it and I. Iaggard to publish it. | ||
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! <p>{{rating|start|Incomplete Modernization}}<br/>by [[Norman White]]</p> | ! <p>{{rating|start|Incomplete Modernization}}<br/>by [[Norman White]]</p> | ||
− | ! <p> | + | ! <p>Archetype (1570){{edit index|Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf}}<br/>Transcribed by [[Kelly Hatcher]]</p> |
− | ! <p>English | + | ! <p>English Translation (1594){{edit index|DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf}}<br/>Transcribed by [[Early English Books Online]]</p> |
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− | ! <p>English | + | ! <p>English Translation (1594){{edit index|DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf}}<br/>Transcribed by [[Early English Books Online]]</p> |
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− | ! <p> | + | ! <p>Archetype (1570){{edit index|Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf}}</p>Transcribed by [[Niccolò Menozzi]]</p> |
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{{sourcebox | {{sourcebox | ||
| work = Modernization | | work = Modernization | ||
− | | authors = [[Norman White]] | + | | authors = [[translator::Norman White]] |
| source link = | | source link = | ||
| source title= Document circulated online | | source title= Document circulated online | ||
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| authors = [[Early English Books Online]] | | authors = [[Early English Books Online]] | ||
| source link = | | source link = | ||
− | | source title= [[Index | + | | source title= [[Index:DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf|Index talk:DiGrassi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi)]] |
| license = default | | license = default | ||
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== Additional Resources == | == Additional Resources == | ||
− | + | {{bibliography}} | |
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== References == | == References == | ||
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[[Category:English]] | [[Category:English]] | ||
[[Category:Italian]] | [[Category:Italian]] | ||
+ | |||
+ | [[Category:Copy/Pasting]] | ||
[[Category:Double Side Swords]] | [[Category:Double Side Swords]] |
Latest revision as of 20:34, 25 March 2024
Giacomo di Grassi | |
---|---|
Born | 16th century Modena, Italy |
Died | after 1594 London, England |
Occupation | Fencing master |
Genres | Fencing manual |
Language | |
Notable work(s) | Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (1570) |
First printed english edition |
His True Arte of Defence (1594) |
Concordance by | Michael Chidester |
Translations | Český Překlad |
Giacomo di Grassi was a 16th century Italian fencing master. Little is known about the life of this master, but he seems to have been born in Modena, Italy and acquired some fame as a fencing master in his youth. He operated a fencing school in Treviso and apparently traveled around Italy observing the teachings of other schools and masters.
Ultimately di Grassi seems to have developed his own method, which he laid out in great detail in his 1570 work Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme ("Discourse on Wielding Arms with Safety"). In 1594, a new edition of his book was printed in London under the title His True Arte of Defence; this edition was orchestrated by an admirer named Thomas Churchyard, who hired I. G. to translated it and I. Iaggard to publish it.
Contents
Treatise
This presentation includes a modernized version of the 1594 English translation, which did not follow the original Italian text with exactness. We intend to replace or expand this with a translation of the Italian, when such becomes available.
Figures |
Archetype (1570) |
English Translation (1594) | |
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Giacomo di Grassi His True Art of Defense, plainly teaching by infallible Demonstrations, apt Figures and perfect Rules the manner and form how a man without other Teacher or Master may handle all sorts of Weapons as well offensive as defensive: With a Treatise Of Deceit or Falsing: And with a way or Means by private Industry to obtain Strength, Judgement, and Activity |
[Ttl] RAGIONE DI ADOPRAR SICVRAMENTE L'ARME SI DA OFFESA, COME DA DIFESA, Con un Trattato dell'inganno, & con un modo di essitarsi da se stesso, per acquistare forza, giudicio, & prestezza, |
[Ttl] Giacomo Di Grassi his true Arte of Defence, plainlie teaching by infallable Demonstrations, apt Figures and perfect Rules the manner and forme how a man without other Teacher or Master may safelie handle all sortes of Weapons as well offensiue as defensiue: VVith a Treatise Of Disceit or Falsinge: And with a waie or meane by priuate Industrie to obtaine Strength, Iudgement and Actiuitie. | |
First written in Italian by the Fore-said Author, And Englished by I. G. gentleman. |
DI GIACOMO DI GRASSI. CON PRIVILEGIO. |
First written in Italian by the foresaid Author, And Englished by I. G. gentleman. | |
Printed at London for I. I. and are to be sold within Temple Barre at the Signe of the Hand and Starre 1594 |
In Uenetia, appresso Giordano Ziletti, & compagni.
|
Printed at London for I. I and are to be sold within Temple Barre at the Signe of the Hand and Starre 1594. | |
[i] To the Right Honorable my L. Borrow Lord Gouernor of the Breil, and Knight of the most honorable order of the Garter, T. C. wisheth continuall Honor, worthines of mind, and learned knowledg, with increas of worldlie Fame, & heauenlie felicitie. HAuing a restlesse desier in the dailie exercises of Pen to present some acceptable peece of work to your L. and finding no one thing so fit for my purpose and your honorable disposition, as the knowledge of Armes and Weapons, which defends life, countrie, & honour, I presumed to preferre a booke to the print (translated out of the Italyan language) of a gentle mans doing that is not so gredie of glory as many glorious writers that eagerly would snatch Fame out of other mens mouthes, by a little labour of their own, But rather keeps his name vnknowen to the world (vnder a shamefast clowd of silence) knowing that vertue shynes best & getteth greatest prayes where it maketh smallest bragg: for the goodnes of the mind seekes no glorious gwerdon, but hopes to reap the reward of well doing among the rypest of iudgement & worthiest of sound consideration, like vnto a man that giueth his goods vnto the poore, and maketh his treasurehouse in heauen, And further to be noted, who can tarrie til the seed sowen in the earth be almost rotten or dead, shal be sure in a boūtiful haruest to reap a goodly crop of corne And better it is to abyde a happie season to see how things will proue, than soddainly to seeke profite where slowlye comes commoditie or any benefit wil rise. Some say, that good writers doe purchase small praise till they be dead, (Hard is that opinion.) and then their Fame shal flowrish & bring foorth the fruite that long lay hid in the earth. [ii] This gentleman, perchaunce, in the like regard smothers vp his credit, and stands carelesse of the worlds report: but I cannot see him so forgotten for his paines in this worke is not little, & his merite must be much that hath in our English tongue published so necessarie a volume in such apt termes & in so bigg a booke (besides the liuely descriptions & models of the same) that shews great knowledge & cunning, great art in the weapon, & great suretie of the man that wisely can vse it, & stoutly execute it. All manner of men allowes knowledge: then where knowledge & courage meetes in one person, there is ods in that match, whatsoeuer manhod & ignorance can say in their own behalfe. The sine book of ryding hath made many good hors-men: and this booke of Fencing will saue many mens lyues, or put comon quarrels out of vre, because the danger is death if ignorant people procure a combate. Here is nothing set downe or speach vsed, but for the preseruation of lyfe and honour of man: most orderly rules, & noble obseruations, enterlaced with wise councell & excellent good wordes, penned from a fowntaine of knowledge and flowing witt, where the reasons runnes as freely as cleere water cōmeth from a Spring or Conduite. Your L. can iudge both of the weapon & words, wherefore there needes no more commendation of the booke: Let it shewe it self, crauing some supportation of your honourable sensure: and finding fauour and passage among the wise, there is no doubt but all good men will like it, and the bad sort will blush to argue against it, as knoweth our liuing Lord, who augment your L. in honour & desyred credit. Your L. in all humbly at commaundement. Thomas Churchyard. | |||
The Author's Epistle unto divers Noble men and Gentlemen |
[i] ALLI MOLTO MAG. SIGNORI Il Sig. Camillo, il Sig. Fabritio, il Sig. Girolamo, già del S. Luigi, il S. Liberale, l'uno & l'altro, S. Luigi Renaldi. Il S. Alberto Onigo, il S. Antonio Bressa, il S. Branca Scolari, il Sig. Lione Bosso, il Sig. Giacomo Sugana, il Sig. Bonsembiante, Onigo, già del Sig. Cavallier, il Sig. Ascanio Federici, il Sig. Agostino Bressa, miei Signori Osseruandissimi. |
[iii] The Authors Epistle vnto diuers Noble men and Gentle-men. | |
Among all the prayers, wherein through the whole course of my life, I have asked any great thing at God's hands, I have always most earnestly beseeched, that (although at this present I am very poor and of base fortune) he would notwithstanding give me grace to be thankful, and mindful of the good turns which I have received. For among all the disgraces which a man may incur in this world, there is none in my opinion which causes him to become more odious, or a more enimic to mortal men (yes, unto God himself) than ingratitude. Wherefore being in Treviso, by your honors courteously entreated, and of all honorably used, although I practiced little or nought at all to teach you how to handle weapons, for the which purpose I was hired with an honorable stipend, yet to shew myself in some sort thankful, I have determined to bestow the way how to all sorts of weapons with the advantage and safety. The which my work, because it shall find your noble hearts full of valor, will bring forth such fruit, being but once attentively read over, as that in your said honors will be seen in acts and deeds, which in other men scarcely is comprehended by imagination. And I, who have been and am most fervently affected to serve your lords, for as much as it is not granted unto me, (in respect of your divers affairs) to apply the same, and take some pains in teaching as I always desired, have yet by this other way, left all that imprinted in your noble minds, which in this honorable exercise may bring a valiant man unto perfection. |
FRA TVTTI i preghi che io per tut to il corso della mia uita ho chiesti a Dio maggiori, di quest'uno l'ho sempre caldamente supplicato. Che quan tunque io mi troui per hora in assai debbole & bassa fortuna, egli nondimeno mi conceda gratia di potermi mostrare grato & cortese de' fauori & beneficii riceuuti. Parendomi che fra tutte le brutture, nelle quali puote l'huomo incorrere in questo mondo, niuna ue ne sia, che piu odioso lo faccia, & inimico a' mortali, & a Dio istesso, che la ingratitudine. Onde essendo io stato dalle Signorie Vostre raccolto in Treuiso, & cortese & honora-tamente trattato da tutti, come che io poco o nulla mi a-doprassi in insegnarle la ragion dell'armi, a che ero da quel-le con honorato stipendio condotto, per dimostrar in parte la gratitudine dell'animo mio, ho deliberato donarle que- [ii] sta mia opera, nella qual mi sforzo di insegnare il modo di adoprar tutte le forte d'armi con auantaggio & sicuramente: la qual, perche trouerà i cuori uostri pieni di ualore, produrrà tal frutto, essendo una uolta letta con attentione, che nelle Signorie Vostre si uedrà quello in fatto, che in altrui à gran pena con l'imaginatione si comprende. Et io che sono stato & son ardentissimo di seruirle, non mi essendo stato concesso per molti suoi affari, di affaticarmi in esercitarle come era il desiderio mio, haurò con quest’altra uia lasciato ne i nobilissimi animi uostri impresso tutto quello che può in quest'honorato essercitio ridurre un'huomo ualoroso a perfettione. |
AMong all the Prayers, wherein through the whole course of my life, I haue asked any great thing at Gods hands, I haue alwayes most earnestly beseeched, that (although at this present I am verie poore and of base Fortune) he would notwithstanding giue me grace to be thankefull and mindfull of the good turnes which I haue receiued. For among all the disgraces which a man may incurre in this world, there is none in mine opinion which causeth him to become more odious, or a more enimie to mortall men (yea, vnto God himselfe) than ingratitude. VVherefore being in Treuiso, by your honours courteously intreated, and of all honourably vsed, although I practised litle or nought at all to teach you how to handle weapons, for the which purpose I was hyred with an honourable stipend, yet to shewe my selfe in some sort thankefull, I haue determined to bestowe this my worke vpon your honours, imploying my whole indeuour to shewe the way how to handle all sortes of weapons with aduantage and safetie. The which my worke, because it shall finde your noble hearts full of valure, will bring foorth such fruite, being but once attentiuely read ouer, as that in your said honors will be seene in actes and deedes, which in other men scarsely is comprehended by imagination. And I, who haue beene and am most feruently affected to serue your Ls. forasmuch as it is not graunted vnto me, (in respect of your diuers affaires) to applie the same, and take some paines inteaching as I alwaies desired, haue yet by this other waie, left all that imprinted in your noble mindes, which in this honourable exercise may bring a valiant man vnto perfection.
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Therefore I humbly beseech your honors, that with the same liberal minds, with the which you accepted of me, your Ls will also receive these my endeavors, and vouchsafe so to protect them, as I have always, and will defend your honors most pure and undefiled. Wherein, if I perceive this my first childbirth (as I have only published it to the intent to help and teach others) to be to the general satisfaction of all I will so strain my endeavors in another work which shortly shall shew the way both how to handle all those weapons on horseback which here are taught on foot, as also all other weapons whatsoever. Your honours most affectionate servant, Giacomo di Grassi of Medena |
Supplico dunque le Signorie uostre, che con quell'animo liberale, che accettorono me, riceuano questa mia fatica, havendola in quella protettione che io ho sempre hauuto & haurò il chiarissimo honor delle Signorie uostre: che se io conoscerò questo mio primiero parto, si come io l'ho solamente per giouare & insegnare publicato, sia di uniuersale sodisfattione, mi sforzerò in un'altro, & fra poco tempo, insegnare il modo di adoprar a cauallo tutte quelle sorti d'armi, che qui s'insegnano a piede, & dell'altre ancora. Di Venetia, adi 8. Marzo. 1570. Di VV. SS. Seruitor Affettionatissimo
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Therefore I humbly beseech your honours, that with the same liberall mindes, with the which you accepted of mee, your Ls: will also receiue these my indeuours, & vouchsafe so to protect them, as I haue alwaies, and wil defend your honours most pure and vndesiled. VVherein, if I perceiue this my first childbirth (as I haue only published it to thentent to help & teach others) to be to the generall satisfaction of all I will so straine my endeuours in an other worke which shortly shall shew the way both how to handle all those weapons on horse-backe which here are taught on foote, as also all other weapons whatsoeuer. Your honours most affectionate seruant.
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[iii] A I LETTORI. SI COME dalle fascie portiamo con noi un quasi sfrenato desiderio di sapere, cosi da l'esser po fatti ragioneuoli nasce in noi una lodeuole & ardente uoglia d'insegnare, il che quando non fosse non si uedrebbe perauentura il mondo di tante arti e scienze ripieno. |
[iv] The Author, to the Reader. EVen as from our swathing bands wee carrie with vs (as it were) an vnbridled desire of knowledge: So afterwardes, hauing attained to the perfection therof, there groweth in vs a certaine laudable and feruent affection to teach others: The which, if it were not so, the world happily should not be seene so replenished with Artes and Sciences. | ||
Percio che non essendo tutti gli huomini atti alla contemplatione & inuestigatione delle cose, nè meno a ciascuno concessa da Dio la gratia di poter con la mente leuarsi da terra, & inuestigando trouar le cause delle cose, & quelle compartir a quelli che meno uolentieri s'affaticana; accaderebbe che una parte de gli huomini a guisa di Signori & padroni dominarebbono, & gli altri come serui uilissimi in perpetue tenebre auolti tolererebbono una uita indegna dell'humana conditione. La onde al parer mio è cosa ragioneuole far, altrui partecipe di quello che si ha con molto studio & fatica inuestigando ritrouato. Sendo dunque io sin da fanciullo sommamente dilettato del maneggio dell'armi, dopo l'hauer molto tempo esercitato il corpo in esse, ho uoluto uedere i piu eccellenti maestri di quest'arte, i quali ho auertito hauere tutti, modi diuersi di insegnare l'uno da l'altro molto differenti, quasi che questo mestiero fosse senza ordine & regola, & dipendesse tutto dal ceruello, & ghiribizzo di chi ne fa professione, nè fosse possibile in quello esercitio tanto honorato ritrouarsi, come in tutte l'altre arti e scienze, una sola uia buona e uera, col mezo della quale si potesse hauere intera cognitione di quanto si puo far con l'armi, senza lam bicarsi tutto dì il ceruello ad imparar hoggi un colpo da un maestro, diman da un'altro, affaticandosi d'intorno a i particolari, la cognitione de' quali è infinita, & per ciò impossibile. Però da honesto desio di giouare sospinto, tutto a questa contemplatione mi diedi, con speranza quando che fosse di poter ritrouare i principii & le uere cagioni di questa arte, & in poca somma & certo ordine ridurre il confuso & infinito numero de' colpi: i quali principii essendo pochi, & per ciò facili ad esser da qualunque persona intesi & collocati nella memoria; senza alcun dubio in poco tempo & con poca fatica apriranno una larghissima strada a saper tutto quello che in essa arte si contiene. Nè sono di ciò, si come io stimo, punto rimaso ingannato: percioche al fine dopo molto pensare [iv] ho ritrouato questa uera arte, dalla qual sola dipende la cognitione di quanto si puo far con l'armi in mano; non tanto di quelle che hoggidì si trouano, ma di quelle ancora che si troueranno nel tempo auenire, essendo ella fondata su la offesa & difesa, ambedue le quali si fanno nella linea retta e circulare, che in altro modo non si puo offendere nè difendere. |
For if men generally were not apt to contemplation and searching out of things: Or if God had not bestowed vpon euery man the grace, to be able to lift vp his minde from the earth, and by searching to finde out the causes thereof, and to imparte them to those who are lesse willing to take any paines therein: it would come to passe, that the one parte of men, as Lordes and Masters, should beare rule, and the other parte as vyle slaues, wrapped in perpetuall darknesse, should suffer and lead a life vnworthie the condition of man. Wherefore, in mine opinion it standes with great reason that a man participate that vnto others which he hath searched and found out by his great studie & trauaile. And therefore, I being euen from my childhood greatly delighted in the handling of weapons: after I had spent much time in the exercise thereof, was desyrous to see and beholde the most excellent and expert masters of this Arte, whome I haue generally marked, to teach after diuers wayes, much differing one from another, as though this misterie were destitute of order & rule, or depended onely vpon imagination, or on the deuise of him who professeth the same: Or as though it were a matter impossible to find out in this honourable exercise (as well as in all other Artes and Sciences) one onely good and true way, whereby a man may attaine to the intire knowledge of as much as may be practised with the weapon, not depending altogether vpon his owne head, or learning one blowe to day of one master, on the morowe of another, thereby busying himselfe about perticulars, the knowledge whereof is infinite, therefore impossible. Whereupon being forced, through a certaine honest desire which I beare to helpe others, I gaue my selfe wholy to the con- [v] templation thereof: hoping that at the length, I shoulde finde out the true principles and groundes of this Arte, and reduce the confused and infinite number of blowes into a compendious summe and certaine order: The which principles being but fewe, and therefore easie to be knowen and borne away, without doubt in small time, and little trauaile, will open a most large entrance to the vnderstanding of all that which is contained in this Arte. Neither was I in this frustrate at all of my expectation: For in conclusion after much deliberation, I haue found out this Arte, from the which onely dependeth the knowledge of all that which a man may performe with a weapon in his hand, and not onely with those weapons which are found out in these our dayes, but also with those that shall be inuented in time to come: Considering this Arte is grounded vpon Offence and Defence, both the which are practised in the straight and circuler lynes, for that a man may not otherwise either strike or defend. | ||
Et uolendo insegnar questa ragione dell'adoprar l'armi con quel maggior ordine & con quella maggior chiarezza che sia possibile, ho posto nel primo loco i principii di tutta l'arte nominando gli Auertimenti, i qua li essendo per sua natura notissimi a ciascuna persona di sana mente, non ho fatto altro che solamente raccontarli senza renderne ragion alcuna, come cosa superflua. |
And because I purpose to teach how to handle the Weapon, as orderly and plainly as is possible: I haue first of all layd down the principles or groundes of all the Arte, calling them Aduertisements, the which, being of their owne nature verie well knowen to all those that are in their perfect wittes: I haue done no other then barely declared them, vvithout rendring any further reason, as being a thing superfluous. | ||
Dopo questi principii ho trattato delle cose piu semplici, & de li poi alle composite ascendendo, dimostro quello che in tutto l'armi si possa fare. Et perche nell'insegnar le scienze & l'arti, si denono molto piu estimar le cose, che le parole, però non ho uoluto elegger un modo di parlare copioso, & sonoro, ma uno breue & familiare: il qual modo di parlare si come in poco fascio contiene in se & molte cose & grandi, cosi ricerca un lettore acuto & tardo, il quale uoglia a passo a passo penetrar nella midolla delle cose. |
These principles being declared, I haue next handled those things, vvhich are, and be, of themselues, Simple, then (ascending vp to those that are Compound) I shewe that vvhich may be generally done in the handling of all Weapons. And because, in teaching of Artes and Sciences, Things are more to be esteemed of than VVordes, therefore I vvould not choose in the handling hereof a copious and sounding kinde of speach, but rather that vvhich is more briefe and familiar. Which maner of speach as in a small bundle, it containeth diuers weightie things, so it craueth a slowe and discreete Reader, who will soft and faire pearce into the verie Marrowe thereof. | ||
Prego dunque il benigno lettore che tale si dimostri nel leggere la presente mia opera, sendo sicuro in tal modo leggendola di deuerne raccogliere grandissimo frutto & honore: nè è dubio alcuno che colui, il quale sarà fornito a bastanza di questa cognitione, & haurà a proportione la persona esercitata, non sia di gran lunga superiore ad ogni altro, quando però ui sarà da luna & l'altra parte egual forza & uelocità. |
For this cause I beseech the gentle Reader to shewe himselfe such a one in the reading of this my present worke, assuring him selfe by so reading it, to reape great profite and honour thereby. And [vi] Not doubting but that he (who is sufficientlie furnished with this knowledge, and hath his bodie proporcionably exercised thereunto) shall far surmount anie other although he be indewed with equal force and swiftnes. | ||
Et percioche questa arte è un principal membro della scienza militare, la quale insieme con le lettere è l’ornamento del mondo, però non si deue ella esercitare nelle brighe & risse, che si fanno per le contrade, ma come honoratissimi cauallieri riserbarsi di adoprarla per l'honor della patria, del suo Principe, per l'honor delle Donne, & di loro stessi, & finalmente per la uittoria de gli esserciti. |
Moreouer, because this art is a principal member of the Militarte profession, vvhich alltogether (vvith learning) is the ornament of all the World, Therefore it ought not to be exercised in Braules and Fraies, as men commonlie practise in euerie shire, but as honorable Knights, ought to reserue themselues, & exercise it for the aduantage of their Cuntry, the honour of vveomen, and conqueringe of Hostes and armies. | ||
[vii] An Aduertisement to the curteous reader. GOod Reader, before thou enter into the discourse of the hidden knowledge of this honourable excerise of the weapon now layd open and manifested by the Author of this worke, & in such perfectnes translated out of the Italian tongue, as all or most of the marshal mynded gentlemen of England cannot but commend, and no one person of indifferent iudgement can iustly be offended with, seeing that whatsoeuer herein is discoursed, tendeth to no other vse, but the defence of mans life and reputation: I thought good to aduertise thee that in some places of this booke by reason of the aequiuocation of certaine Italian wordes, the weapons may doubtfully be construed in English. Therefore sometimes fynding this worde Sworde generally vsed, I take it to haue beene the better translated, if in steede thereof the Rapier had beene inserted: a weapon more vsuall for Gentlemens wearing, and fittest for causes of offence and defence: Besides that, in Italie where Rapier and Dagger is commonly worne and vsed, the Sworde (if it be not an arming Sworde) is not spoken of. Yet would I not the sence so strictly to be construed, that the vse of so honourable a weapon be vtterly [viii] reiected, but so redd, as by the right and perfect vnderstanding of the one, thy iudgement may som what be augmented in managing of the other: Knowing right well, that as the practise and vse of the first is commendable amongst them, so the second cannot so farre be condemned, but that the wearing thereof may well commend a man of valour and reputation amongst vs. The Sworde and Buckler fight was long while allowed in England (and yet practise in all sortes of weapons is praisworthie,) but now being layd downe, the sworde but with Seruing-men is not much regarded, and the Rapier fight generally allowed, as a wapon because most perilous, therefore most feared, and thereupon priuate quarrels and common frayes soonest shunned. | |||
But this peece of work, gentle Reader, is so gallantly set out in euery point and parcell, the obscurest secrets of the handling of the weapon so clerely vnfolded, and the perfect demeaning of the bodie vpon all and sudden occasions so learnedly discoursed, as will glad the vnder stander thereof, & sound to the glory of all good Masters of Defence, because their Arte is herein so honoured, and their knowledge (which some men count infinite) in so singuler a science, drawen into such Grounds and Principles, as no wise man of an vnpartiall iudgement, [ix] and of what profession soeuer, but will confesse himself in curtesie farre indebted both to the Author & Translator of this so necessarie a Treatise, whereby he may learne not onely through reading & remembring to furnish his minde with resolute instructions, but also by practise and exercise gallantly to perfourme any conceited enterprise with a discreete and orderly carriage of his bodie, vpon all occasions whatsoeuer. | |||
Gentle Reader, what other escapes or mistakings shall come to thy viewe, either friendly intreate thee to beare with them, or curteously with thy penne for thine owne vse to amend them. Fare-well. | |||
[x] The Sortes of VVeapons handled in this Treatise. THe single Rapier, Or single Sworde. Falsing of Blowes and Thrusts. At single rapier &c. |
Figures |
Archetype (1570) |
English Translation (1594) | |
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The second part entreating of deceits and falsings of blows and thrusts |
[119] DELL' INGANO. |
[133] THE Second Part intreatinge of Deceites and Falsinges of Blowes and Thrustes. | |
Being come to the end of the true Art, and having declared all which seemed convenient and profitable for the attainment of true judgment in the handling of the weapon and of the entire knowledge of all advantages, by the which as well all disadvantages are known: It shall be good that I entreat of Deceit or Falsing, as well to perform my promise, as also to satisfy those who are greatly delighted to skirmish, not with the pretense to hurt or overcome, but rather for their exercise and pastime: |
BEinge come to the end of the true Arte, and hauing declared all that which seemed conuenient and profitable for the attaynement of true iudgement in the handling of the weapon & of the entire knowledg of al aduātages, by the which as well al disaduantages are knowen: It shall be good that I intreat of Deceite or Falsing, aswel to performe my promise, as also to satisfie those who are greatly delighted to skirmish, not with pretence to hurt or ouer come but rather for their exercise & pastime: | ||
In which it is a brave and gallant thing and worthy of commendations to be skillful in the apt managing of the body, feet and hands, in moving nimbly sometimes with the hand, sometimes with the elbow, and sometimes with the shoulder, in retiring, in increasing, in lifting the body high, in bearing it low in one instant: in brief, delivering swiftly blows as well of the edge as of the point, both right and reversed, nothing regarding either time, advantage or measure, bestowing them at random every way. |
In which it is a braue and gallant thing and worthy of commendations to be skilfull in the apte managing of the bodie, feete and hands, in mouing nimblie sometimes with the hand, some-times with the elbow, and sometimes with the shoulder, in retiring, in increasing, in lifting the bodie high, in bearing it low in one instant: in breif, deliuering swiftlie blows aswell of the edge as of the point, both right and reuersed, nothing regarding either time, aduantage or measure, bestowing them at randone euerie waie. | ||
But diverse men being blinded in their own conceits, do in these actions certainly believe that they are either more nimble, either more wary and discreet then their adversary is: of which their foolish opinion they are beastly proud and arrogant: |
But diuers men being blinded in their owne conceites, do in these actions certainly beleeue that they are either more nimble, either more warie & discreet [134] then theire aduersarie is: Of which their folish opinion they are all beastlie proud and arrogant: | ||
And because it has many times happened them, either with a false thrust, or edge blow, to hurt or abuse the enemy, they become lofty, and presume thereon as though their blows were not to be warded. But yet for the most part it falls out, that by a plain simple swab having only a good stomach and stout courage, they are chopped in with a thrust, and so miserably slain. |
And because it hath manie times happened them, either with a false thrust, or edge blowe, to hurte or abuse the enemie, they become loftie, and presume thereon as though their blowes were not to be warded. But yet for the most part it falleth out, that by a plain simple swad hauing onely a good stomack and stout courage, they are chopt in with a thrust, and so miserablie slaine. | ||
For avoiding of this abuse, the best remedy is, that they exercise themselves in delivering these falses only in sport, and (as I have before said) for their practice and pastime: Resolving themselves for a truth, that when they are to deal with any enemy, and when it is upon danger of their lives, they must then suppose the enemy to be equal to themselves as well in knowledge as in strength, and accustom themselves to strike in as little time as is possible, and that always being well warded. And as for these Falses or Slips, they must use them for their exercises and pastimes sake only, and not presume upon them, except it beagainst such persons, who are either much more slow, either know not the true principals of this Art. For Deceit or Falsing is no other thing, then a blow or thrust delivered, not to the intent to hurt or hit home, but to cause the enemy to discover himself in some part, by means whereof a man may safely hurt him in the same part. And look how many blows or thrusts there may be given, so many falses or deceits may be used, and a great many more, which shall be declared in their proper place: The defense likewise whereof shall in few words be last of all laid upon you. |
For auoiding of this abuse, the best remedie is, that they exercise themselues in deliuering these falses onlie in sport, and (as I haue before said) for their practise & pastime: Resoluing themselues for a truth, that when they are to deal with anie enemie, & when it is vpon danger of their liues, they must then suppose the enemie to be equall to themselues aswel in knoledge as in strength, & accustome themselues to strik in as litle time as is possible, and that alwaies beeing wel warded. And as for these Falses or Slips, they must vse them for their exercise & pastimes sake onelie, and not presume vpon them, except it bee against such persons, who are either much more slow, either know not the true principels of this Art. For Disceit or Falsing is no other thing, then a blow or thrust deuered, not to the intent to hurt or hitt home, but to cause the enemie to discouer himselfe in some parte, by meanes whereof a man maie safely hurt him in the same part. And looke how manie blowes or thrusts there maie be giuen, so manie falses or deceits may be vsed, and a great manie more, which shal be declared in their proper place: The defence likewise whereof [135] shal in few words be last of all laid open vnto you. | ||
Deceits or falsings of the single sword, or single rapier As I take not Victory to the end and scope of falsing, but rather nimbleness of body and dexterity in play: So, casting aside the consideration how a man is either covered or discovered, and how he has more or less advantage, I say that there may be framed at single sword so many wards, as there be ways to move the hand and foot. |
Deceits or Falsings of the single Sword, or single Rapier AS I take not Victorie to be the end and scope of falsing, but rather nimblenes of bodie and dexteritie in plaie: So, casting aside the consideration how a man is either couered or discouered, and how he hath more or lesse aduantage) I saie that there maie be framed at the single sword so manie wards, as there be waies how to moue the arme hand and foot. | ||
Therefore in falsing there may be framed the high, low, and broad ward, with the right foot behind and before: a man may bear his sword with the point backwards and forwards: he may bear his right hand on the left side, with his sword's point backwards: he may stand at the low ward with the point backwards and forwards, bending towards the ground. And standing in all these ways, he may false a thrust above, and force it home beneath above, he may false it without and deliver it within, or contrariwise. |
Therefore in falsinge there may bee framed the high, lowe, and brode warde, with the right foote behind and before: a man may beare his sword witht the poynt backewardes and forwardes: he may beare his right hand on the left sid, with his swords poynt back wards: he may stand at the low warde with the point backewardes and forwardes, bending towardes the grounde. And standing in all these waies, he may false a thrust aboue, and force it home beneath: and contrarie from beneth aboue, he may false it without and deliuer it within, or contrariwise. | ||
And according to the said manner of thrusting he may deliver edge-blows, right, reversed, high and low, as in that case shall most advantage him. Farther he may false an edge-blow, and deliver it home: as for example, to false a right blow on high, and deliver home a right and reverse blow, high or low. In like for the reverse is falsed, by delivering right or reverse blows, high or low. |
And according to the saide manner of thrusting he may deliuer edge-blowes, right, reuersed, high and lowe, as in that case shal most aduantage him. Farther he may false an edgeblow, and deliuer it home: as for example, to false a right blowe on highe, and deliuer home a right and reuerse blowe, high or lowe. In like sortthe reuerse is falsed, by deliuering right or reuerse blowes, high or lowe. | ||
But it is to be considered, that when he bears his sword with his point backwards, he false no other then the edge-blow, for then thrusts are discommodious. And because men do much use at this weapon, to beat off the point of the sword with their hands: therefore he must in that case for his greater readiness and advantage, suffer his sword to sway to that side, whether the enemy bears it, joining to that motion as much force as he may, performing therein a full circular blow, and delivering it at the enemy. |
[136] But it is to be considered, that when he beareth his sworde with his poynt backewardes, he false no other than the edgeblow, for then thrusts are discommodius. And because men do much vse at this weapon, to beate off the poynt of the sworde with their handes: therefore he must in that case for his greater redines & aduantage, suffer his sword to swaie to that side, whether the enemy beateth it, ioyning to that motion as much force as he may, performing therin a ful circuler blowe, and deliuering it at the enemie. | ||
And this blow is most ready, and so much the rather, it is possible to be performed, by how much the enemy thinks not, that the sword will pass in full circle that way, for the enemy being somewhat disappointed, by beating off the sword, after which beating, he is also to deliver his thrust, he cannot so speedily speed both those times but that he shall be first struck with the edge of the sword, which he had before so beaten off. |
And this blow is most readie, and so much the rather, it is possible to be performed, by how much the enemie thinketh not, that the sword will passe in full circle that waie, for the enemie being somwhat disapoynted, by beating off the sworde, after which beating, he is also to deliuer his thrust, he cānot so speedely spēd both those times but that he shalbe first strokē with the edge of the sworde, which he had before so beaten off. | ||
General advertisements concerning the defenses Because it chances commonly, that in managing of the hands, men bear no great regard, either to time or advantage, but do endeavor themselves after diverse and sundry ways and means to encounter the enemy's sword: therefore in these cases, it is very profitable to know how to strike, and what may be done in the shortest time. |
Generall aduertisementes concerning the defences. BEcause it chaunceth commonly, that in managing of the handes, men beare no great regard, either to time or aduantage, but do endeuour themselues after diuers & sundry waies & meanes to encounter the enemies sword: therfore in these cases, it is verie profitable to knowe how to strike, and what may be done in shortest time. | ||
The enemy's sword is encountered always either above, either in the middle, either beneath: and in all these ways a man finds himself to stand either above, either beneath, either within, either without. And it falls out always that men find themselves underneath with the sword at the hanging ward, when they are to ward high edge-blows or thrusts: and this way is most commonly used: The manner whereof is, when the hand is lifted up to defend the sword being thwarted, and the point turned downwards: when one finds himself so placed, he ought not to recover his sword from underneath, and then to deliver an edge-blow, for that were too long, but rather to strike nimbly that part of the enemy underneath, which is not warded, so that he shall do no other then turn his hand and deliver an edge-blow at the legs which surely speeds. |
The enemies sword is encountred alwaies either aboue, either in the midle, either beneath: & in al these [137] waies a man findeth himself to stand either aboue, either beneth, either within, either without. And it fales out alwaies that men finde themselues vndernethe with the sword at the hanging warde, when they are to ward high edgeblowes or thrusts; and this waie is most commonly vsed: The manner whereof is, when the hand is lifted vp to defend the sword being thwar ted, and the poynt turned downewards: when one findeth himselfe so placed, he ought not to recouer his sworde from vnderneath, and then to deliuer an edge-blowe, for that were to long, but rather to strike nimbly that part of the enemie vnderneath, which is not warded, so that he shall do no other then turne his hand & deliuer an edge-blow at the legges which surely speedeth. | ||
But if he find himself in defense either of the reverse or thrust, to bear his sword aloft and without, and not hanging, in this the safest thing is, to increase a pace, and to seize upon the enemy's hand or arm. |
But if he finde himselfe in defence either of the reuerse or thrust, to beare his sword aloft and without, and not hanging, in this the safest thing is, to increase a pace, and to seasyn vpon the enimies hand or arme. | ||
The self same he ought to do, finding himself in the middle, without and underneath: But if he find himself within, he cannot by any means make any seizure, because he shall then be in great peril to invest himself on the point of the enemy's sword. |
The selfe same he ought to doe, finding himselfe in the midle, without and vnderneath: But if he finde himselfe within, he cannot by any meanes make anie seasure, because he shall be then in greate perill to inuest himselfe on the poynt of the enemies sworde. | ||
Therefore to avoid the said point or thrust, he must turn his fist and deliver an edge-blow at the face, and withdraw himself by voiding of his foot towards the broad ward. And if he find himself beneath, and have encountered the enemy's edge-blow, either with the edge, or with the false or back of the sword, being beneath: then without any more ado, he ought to cut the legs, and void himself from the enemy's thrust. And let this be taken for a general rule: the body must be borne as far off from the enemy as it may. And blows always are to be delivered on that part which is found to be most near, be the stroke great or little. And each man is to be advertised that when he finds the enemy's weapon underneath at the hanging ward, he may safely make a seizure: but it would be done nimbly and with good courage, because he does then increase towards his enemy in the straight line, that is to say, increase on pace, and therewithal take holdfast of the enemy's sword, near the hilts thereof, yea though his hand were naked, and under his own sword presently turning his hand outwards, which of force wrests the sword out of the enemy's hand: neither ought he to fear to make seizure with his naked hand, for it is in such a place, that if should with his hand encounter a blow, happily it would not cut because the weapon has there very small force. All the hazard will be, if the enemy should draw back his sword, which causes it to cut. For in such sort it will cut mightily: but he may not give leisure or time to the enemy to draw back, but as soon as the seizure is made, he must also turn his hand outwards: in which case, the enemy has no force at all. |
Therefore to avoide the saide poynt or thrust, he must turne his fist and deliuer an edge-blow at the face, and withdraw himselfe by voiding of his foote towardes the broad ward. And if he finde himselfe beneath, & haue encountred the enemies edgeblow, either with the edge, or with the false or backe of the sword, being beneath: then without any more adoe, he ought to cut the legges, and void himself from the [138] enimies thrust. And let this be taken for a generall rule: the bodie must be borne as far of from the enimy as it may. And blowes alwaies are to be deliuered on that parte which is founde to be most neare, be the stroke great or little. And each man is to be aduertised that when he findes the enimies weapon vnderneath at the hanging ward, he may safely make a seisure: but it would be done nimbly and with good courage, because he doth then increase towards his enimie in the streight lyne, that is to saie, increase on pace, and therewithall take holdfast of the enemies sword, nere the hiltes thereof, yea though his hand were naked, and vnder his owne sworde presently turning his hand outwardes, which of force wresteth the sworde out of the enimies hand: neither ought he to feare to make feisure with his naked hand, for it is in such a place, that if he should with his hand encounter a blowe, happely it would not cut because the weapō hath thereverie small force. All the hazard wil be, if the enimie should drawe backe his sword, which causeth it to cutte. For in such sorte it will cut mightily: but he may not giue leasure or time to the enimie to drawe backe, but as soone as the seisure is made, he must also turne his hand outwards: in which case, the enimie hath no force at all. | ||
These manner of strikings ought and may be practiced at all other weapons. Therefore this rule ought generally to be observed, and that is, to bear the body different from the enemy's sword, and to strike little or much, in small time as is possible. |
These maner of strikings ought and maie be practised at all other weapons. Therefore this rule ought generally to be obserued, and that is, to beare the bodie different from the enimes sword, and to strike litle or much, in as small time as is possible. | ||
And if one would in delivering of a great edge-blow, use small motion and spend little time he ought as soon as he has struck, to draw or slide his sword, thereby causing it to cut: for otherwise an edge-blow is to no purpose, although it be very forcibly delivered, especially when it lights on any soft or limber thing: but being drawn, it does every way cut greatly. |
And if one would in deliuering of a great edge-blowe, vse small motion and spende little time hee [139] ought as soone as he hath stroken, to drawe or slide his sword, thereby causing it to cute: for otherwise an edge-blowe is to no purpose, although it be verie forcibly deliuered, especialy when it lighteth on any soft or limber thing: but being drawen, it doth euery way cute greatly. | ||
Of sword and dagger, or rapier and dagger All the wards which are laid down for the single sword, may likewise be given for the sword and dagger. And there is greater reason why they should be termed wards in the handling of this, than of the single sword, because albeit the sword is borne unorderly, and with such disadvantage, that it wards in a manner no part of the body, yet there is a dagger which continually stands at his defense, in which case, it is not convenient that a man lift up both his arms and leave his body open to the enemy: for it is neither agreeable to true, neither to false art considering that in each of them the endeavor is to overcome. And this manner of lifting up the arms, is as if a man would of purpose be overcome: Therefore, when in this deceitful and false art, one is to use two weapons, he must take heed that he bear the one continually at his defense, and to handle the other every way to molest the enemy: sometime framing one ward, sometimes another: and in each of them to false, that is, to feign a thrust, and deliver a thrust, to false a thrust, and give an edge-blow: and otherwise also, to false an edge-blow, and to deliver an edge-blow. And in all these ways to remember, that the blow be continually different from the false: That is, if the thrust be falsed above to drive it home below: If within, yet to strike without, and falsing an edge-blow above, to bestow it beneath: or falsing a right blow, to strike with the reverse: or sometimes with a right blow, but yet differing from the other. And after an edge-blow on high, to deliver a reverse below. In fine, to make all such mixture of blows, as may bear all these contrarieties following, to wit, the point, the edge, high, low, right, reversed, within, without. But, I see not how one may practice any deceit with the dagger, the which is not openly dangerous. As for example, to widen it and discover some part of the body to the enemy, thereby provoking him to move, and then warding, to strike him, being so disappointed: but in my opinion, these sorts of falses of discovering the body, ought not to be used: For it behooves a man, first, safely defend to himself, and then to offend the enemy, the which he cannot do, in the practice of the said falses, if he chance to deal with an enemy that is courageous and skillful. But this manner of falsing next following, is to be practiced last of all other, and as it were in desperate cases. And it is, either to feign, as though he would forcibly fling his dagger at the enemy's face, (from the which false, he shall doubtless procure the enemy to ward himself, either by lifting up the arms, or by retiring himself, or by moving towards one side of other, in which travail and time, a man that is very wary and nimble, may safely hurt him) or else instead of falsing a blow, to fling the dagger indeed at the enemy's face. In which chance or occasion, it is necessary that he have the skill how to stick the dagger with the point. But yet howsoever it chance, the coming of the dagger in such sort, does so greatly trouble and disorder the enemy, that if a man step in nimbly, he may safely hurt him. |
Of sword and dagger, or Rapier and dagger. AL the wardes which are laide downe for the single sword, may likewise be giuen for the sworde and dagger. And there is greater reason why they should be termed wardes in the handling of this, than of the single sword, because albeit the sword is borne vnorderly, & with such disaduantage, that it wardeth in a maner no parte of the bodie, yet there is a dagger which continually standeth at his defence, in which case, it is not conuenient that a man lift vp both his armes and leaue his bodie open to the enimie: for it is neither agreeable to true, neither to false arte considering that in each of them the endeuor is to ouercome. And this manner of lifting vp the armes, is as if a man wold of purpose be ouercome: Therfore, when in this deceitfull and false arte, one is to vse two weapons, he must take hede that he beare the one cōtinually at his defence, and to handle the other euerie waye to molest the enimie: somtime framing one warde, somtimes an other: and in each of them to false, that is, to faine a thrust, and deliuer a thrust, to false a thrust, and giue an edge-blowe: and otherwise also, to false an edge-blowe, and to deliuer an edge- [140] blowe. And in all these wayes to remember, that the blowe be continually different from the false: That is, if the thrust be falsed aboue to driue it home belowe: If within, yet to strike it without, and falsing an edgeblowe aboue, to bestowe it beneath: or falsing a right blowe, to strike with the reuerse: or sometimes with a right blowe, but yet differing from the other. And after an edgeblowe on high, to deliuer a reuerse belowe. In fine, to make all such mixture of blowes, as may beare all these contrarieties following, to wit, the point, the edge, high, lowe, right, reuersed, within, without. But, I see not howe one may practise any deceit with the dagger, the which is not openly daungerous. As for example, to widen it and discouer some part of the bodie to the enemie, thereby prouoking him to moue, and then warding, to strike him, being so disapointed: but in my opinion, these sortes of falses of discouering the bodie, ought not to be vsed: For it behoueth a man, first, safely to defend himselfe, and then to offend the enimie, the which he cannot do, in the practise of the said falses, if he chaunce to deale with an enimie that is couragious and skilfull. But this manner of falsing next following, is to be practised last of all other, and as it were in desperate cases. And it is, either to faine, as though he would forcibly fling his dagger at the enemies face, (frō the which false, he shal doubtles procure the enemie to warde himselfe, either by lifting vp his armes, or by retyring himself, or by mouing towards one side or other, in which trauaile & time, a man that is verie warie and nimble, may safely hurt him:) or els in steede of falsing a blowe, to fling [141] the dagger in deede at the enimies face. In which chaunce or occasion, it is necessarie that he haue the skill how to sticke the dagger with the poynt. But yet howsoeuer it chaunce, the comming of the dagger in such sort, doth so greatly trouble and disorder the enemie, that if a man step in nimbly, he may safely hurt him. | ||
These deceits and falses, of the sword and dagger, may be warded according as a man finds it most commodious either with the sword, or else with the dagger, not regarding at all (as in true art) to defend the left side with the dagger, and the right side with the sword: For in this false art men consider not either of advantage, time, or measure, but always their manner is (as soon as they have found the enemy's sword) to strike by the most short way, be it either with the edge, or point, notwithstanding the blow be not forcible, but only touch weakly and scarcely: for in play, so it touch any way, it is accounted for victory. |
These deceits and falses, of the sword and dagger, may be warded according as a man findes it most commodious either with the sworde, or els with the dagger, not regarding at all (as in true arte) to defend the left side with the dagger, and the right sid with the sword: For in this false arte men consider not either of aduantage, time, or measure, but alwaies their manner is (as soone as they haue found the enimies sword) to strike by the most short waie, be it either with the edge, or point, notwithstanding the blowe be not forcible, but onely touch weakely & scarslv: for in plaie, so it touch any waie, it is accounted for victorie. | ||
Concerning taking holdfast, or seizing the enemy's sword, I commend not in any case, that seizure be made with the left hand, by casting a way of the dagger, as else I have seen it practiced: but rather that it be done keeping the sword and dagger fast in hand. And although this seem impossible, yet every one that is nimble and strong of arm, may safely do it. And this seizure is used as well under an edge-blow, as under a thrust in the manner following. |
Concerning taking holdfast, or seising the enimies sword, I commend not in any case, that seisure be made with the left hand, by casting a way of the dagger as else where I haue seene it practised: but rather that it be done keeping the sword and dagger fast in hand. And although this seeme vnpossible, yet euery one that is nimble & strong of arme, may safely do it. And this seisure is vsed aswell vnder an edgeblowe, as vnder a thrust in manner following. | ||
When an edge-blow or thrust comes above, it must be encountered with the sword without, on the third or fourth part of the enemy's sword, and with the dagger born within, on the first or second part thereof: having thus suddenly taken the enemy's sword in the middle, to turn forcibly the enemy's sword outwards with the dagger, keeping the sword steadfast, and as straight towards the enemy as possible by means whereof it may the more easily be turned. And there is no doubt but the enemy's sword may be wrung out of his hand, and look how much nearer the point it is taken, so much the more easily it is turned or wrested outwards, because it makes the greater circle, and the enemy has but small force to resist that motion. |
When the edgeblowe or thrust commeth aboue, it must be incountred with the sword without, on the third or fourth parte of the enimies sword, and with [142] the dagger borne within, on the first or second parte thereof hauing thus sodenly taken the enimies sword in the middle, to turne forciblie the enimies sword outwardes with the dagger, keeping the sword stedfast, and as streight towards the enimie as is possible by meanes whereof it may the more easely be turned. And there is no doubt but the enimies sworde may be wrong out of his hand, and looke how much nearer the poynt it is taken, so much the more easelie it is turned or wrested outwards, because it maketh the greater circle, and the enimie hath but smal force to resist that motion. | ||
Of sword and cloak, or rapier and cloak For to deceive the enemy with the cloak, it is necessary to know how many ways it may serve the turn, and to be skillful how to fold it orderly about the arm, and how to take advantage by the largeness thereof: and farther to understand how to defend, and how to offend and hinder the enemy therewith, because it fails not always, that men fight with their cloak wrapped about the arm, and the sword in hand, Therefore it is the part of a wise man, to know also how to handle the cloak after any other manner. |
Of Sword and Cloke, or Rapier and Cloke.
FOR to disceyue the enimie with the cloake, it is necessarie to know how many waies it may serue the turne, and to be skilfull how to fould it orderly about the arme, and how to take aduantage by the largenes thereof: and farther to vnderstand how to defend, and how to offend and hinder the enimie therewith, because it fales not out alwaies, that men fight with their cloake wrapped about the arme, and the sword in hand, Therefore it is the parte of a wise man, to knowe also how to handle the cloake after any other manner. | ||
Wherefore one may get the advantage of the Cloak, both when it is about his body, and when it is folded about his arm: The Cloak being about the arm in this manner. When it chances that any man to bicker with his enemy, with whom he is at point to join, but yet happily wears about him at that instant no kind of weapon, whereas his enemy is weaponed, and threatens him, then by taking both sides of the cloak as near the collar as is possible, he may draw if over his own head, and throw it at his enemy's face, who then being entangled and blinded there with, may either be thrown down, or disfurnished of his weapon very easily by him that is nimble, especially if he have to deal against one who is slow. A man may after another manner take the advantage of the cloak which the enemy wears, by taking with one hand both sides thereof, near the collar: which sides being strongly held, cause the cloak to be a gin being violently held, and plucked with one hand, he may so forcibly strike him with the other on the face or visage, that he will go near hand to break his neck. |
Wherefore one may get the aduātage of the cloke, both when it is about his bodie, and when it is folded about his arme: The cloke being about the arme in this maner. When it chaunceth any man to bicker [143] with his enimie, with whom he is at poynt to ioyne, but yet happelie weareth about him at that instant no kind of weapon, whereas his enimie is weaponed, & threatneth him, then by taking both sides of the cloake as neare the coller as is possible, he may draw it ouer his owne head, and throwe it at his enimies face, who then being in angled and blinded there with, may either be throwen downe, or disfurnished of his weapon very easely by him that is nimble, especially if he haue to deale against one that is slow. A man may after another manner take the aduantage of the cloake which the enimie weareth, by taking with one hande both sides thereof, neere the coller: which sides being strongly holden, cause the cloak to be a ginne or snare about the enimes necke, the which ginne being violently haled, and plucked with one hande, he may so forciblie strike him with the other on the face or visage, that he will goe neere hande to breake his necke. | ||
There be many other ways whereby one may prevail with the cloak, to the greatest part whereof, men of mean judgment may easily attain unto. Therefore when one has his cloak on his arm, and sword in his hand, the advantage he gets thereby, besides the warding of blows, for that has been declared in the true art is, that he may molest his enemy by falsing to fling his cloak, and then to fling it in deed. But to false the flinging of the cloak is very dangerous, because it may not be done but in long time. And the very flinging of the cloak, is as it were a preparation to get the victory, and is in a manner rather true art then deceit, considering it is done by the straight or some other short line: neither for any other cause is this the rather here laid down, in deceit, then before in true art, then for that when one overcomes by this means, he seems not to conquer manfully, because he strikes the enemy before blinded with the cloak. Therefore when one minds to fling his cloak, he may either do it from and with his arm, or else with his sword: in so doing it is necessary, that he have not the cloak too much wrapped about his arm: I say, not above twice, neither to hold it straight or fast with his hand, that thereby he may be the better able when occasion serves to fling it more easily. If therefore he would fling it with his arm, and have it go with such fury, and make such effect as is required, he must of force join to the flinging thereof the increase of a pace, on that side where the cloak is, but first of all he must encounter, either find, either so endure the enemy's sword, that by the means of the increase of that pace it may do no hurt. |
There be manie other waies whereby one may preuaile with the cloake, to the greatest parte whereof, men of meane iudgment may easely attaine vnto. Therefore when one hath his cloake on his arme, and sword in his hand, the aduantage that he getteth therby, besides the warding of blowes, for that hath bene declared in the true arte is, that he may molest his enimie by falsing to fling his cloake, and then to flinge it in deed. But to false the flingyng of the clok is verie daungerous, because it may not be done but in long time. And the verie flinging of the cloake, is as it were a preparation to get the victorie, and is in a manner rather true art then deceit, cōsidering it is don by the [144] streyght or some other shorte line: neither for any other cause is this the rather here laide downe, in deceite, then before in true arte, then for that when one ouercometh by theis meanes, he seemes not to conquere manfully, because he strikes the enimie before blinded with the cloake. wherefore when one mindeth to flinge his cloake, he may either do it from and with his arme, or else with his sword: and in so doing it is necessarie, that he haue not the cloake too much wrapped about his arme: I saie, not aboue twice, neither to hold it streight or fast with his hande, that thereby he may be the better able when occasion serueth to fling it the more easelie. If therefore he would fling it with his arme, and haue it goe with such fury, and make such effect as is required, he must of force ioyne to the flinging thereof the increase of a pace, on that side where the cloake is, but first of all he must incounter, either finde, either so ensure the enimies sword, that by the meanes of the increase of that pace it may do no hurte. | ||
And it is requisite in every occasion, that he find himself to stand without: and when either an edge-blow or a thrust comes, be it above or in the middle, as soon as he has warded it with his sword, he shall increase a pace and fling his cloak, howsoever it be folded, either from the collar, either from any other part, or else to hale it off from his shoulder, although it be on his shoulder: and in this order it is easily thrown, and is thereby the more widened in such sort, that the enemy is the more entangled and snared therewith. |
And it is requisite in euerie occasion, that he finde himselfe to stand without: and when either an edgeblow or a thrust comes, be it aboue or in the middle, as soone as he hath warded it with his sword, he shall increase a pace and fling his cloake, how soeuer it be folded, either from the coller, either from any other parte, or else to hale it off from his shoulder, although it bee on his shoulder: and in this order it is easelie throwne, & is thereby the more widned in such sort, that the enimie is the more entangled and snared therewith. | ||
Concerning the flinging of the cloak with the sword, I say, it may be thrown either with the point, either with the edge: with the point when one stands at the low ward with the right foot behind, and the cloak before: In which case the cloak that would be well and thick doubled and placed on the arm, but not wrapped. And instead of driving a thrust with the point which shall be hidden behind the cloak, he shall take the cloak on the point of the sword, and with the increase of a pace, force it at the enemy's face. And in this manner the cloak is so forcibly, and so covertly delivered and flung, that the enemy is neither aware of it, neither can avoid it, but of force it lights on his face, by means whereof, he may be struck at pleasure in any part of the body. |
Concerning the flinging of the cloake with the [145] sword, I saie, it may be throwen either with the point, either with the edge: with the poynt when one standeth at the lowe warde with the right foote behinde, and the cloake before: In which case the cloake would be well and thicke doubled and placed on the arme, but not wrapped. And in steed of driuing a thrust with the poynt which shalbe hidden behinde the cloake, he shal take the cloake on the poynt of the sworde, and with the increase of a pace, force it at the enimies face. And in this maner the cloake is so forcib lie, and so couertly deliuered and flinged, that the enimie is neither a ware of it, neither can avoyde it, but of force it lighteth on his face, by meanes whereof, he may be stroken at pleasure in any parte of the bodie. | ||
The cloak may be flung or thrown with the edge of the sword, when one stands at the low ward, with the point of the sword turned backwards, one the left side and the cloak upon it, folded at large upon the arm up to the elbow: but not fast wrapped about it, and whilst he falses a reverse, he may take the cloak on the edge of the sword and fling it towards the enemy, and then strike him with such a blow as shall be then most fit for his advantage deliver. |
The cloake may be flong or throwen with the edge of the sworde, when one standeth at the lowe warde, with the poynt of the sword turned backewardes, one the left side and the cloake vpon it, folded at large vpon the arme vp to the elbowe: but not fast wrapped about it, and whilest he falseth a reuerse, he may take the cloake on the edge of the sword and fling it towards the enimie, and then strike him with such a blow as shal be then most fit for his aduantage deliuer. | ||
Many other deceits there may be declared of the cloak, as well of flinging as of falsing it: but because I think these to be sufficient for an example to frame many other by, I make an end. |
Manie other deceites there might be declared of the cloake, aswell of flinging as of falsing it: but because I thinke these to be sufficient for an example to frame manie other by, I make an ende. | ||
Falsing of blows, of sword and buckler square target, and round target Being of the opinion that as touching deceit, there is but one consideration to be had of all these three weapons, and for because all the difference which may be between them is laid down and declared in the true art, in the consideration of form of each of them: Therefore I am willing rather to restrain myself, then to endeavor to fill the lease with the idle repetition of one thing twice. |
[146] Of Sword and buckler, square Target and round Target. BEing of opinion that as touching deceite, there is but one consideration to be had of all these three weapons, and for because all the difference which may be betwen them is laide downe and declared in the true arte, in the consideration of the forme of each ofthem: Therefore I am willing rather to restraine my selfe, then to indeuoure to fill the leafe with the idle repetition of one thing twice. | ||
All these three weapons ought to be borne in the fist, the arm stretched out forwards, and this is evidently seen in the square Target and buckler: the round Target also, because by reason of his greatness and weight, it may not be held in the only fist, and forward, in which kind of holding, it would ward much more is borne on the arm, being stretched forth with the fist forwards, which is in manner all one, or the self same. Therefore one may false as much with the one as with the other, considering there is no other false used with them then to discover and frame diverse wards, bearing no respect to any advantage. And yet there is this difference between them, that with the round Target, one may easily ward both edge-blows and thrusts, and with the square Target, better than with any other, he may ward edge-blows, because it is of square form: and the edge of the sword may easily be retained with the straight side thereof, which is not so easily done with the buckler: for over and besides the warding of thrusts, the buckler is not so sure of itself, but requires aid of the sword. Edge-blows also when they come a thwart (for in that case, they encounter the circumference thereof: the which if it chance, the sword not to encounter on the diameter, or half, in which place the sword is only stayed, but does encounter it, either beneath, either above the said diameter (may easily slip and strike either the head or thighs: therefore let every man take heed and remember, that in striking at the buckler, either with the point or edge of the sword, he deliver it crossing or a thwart. |
All theis three weapons ought to be borne in the fist the arme stretched outforwardes and this is euidently seene in the square Target and buckler: the round Target also, because by reason of his greatnes and waight, it may not be holden in the onelie fist, & forwarde, in which kind of holding, it would warde much more is borne on the arme, being stretched foorth with the fist forwardes, which is in manner all one, o the selfe same. Therefore one may false as much with the one as with the other, considering there is no other false vsed with them then to discouer and frame diuers wards, bering no respect to any aduantage. And yet there is this difference betwene them that with the round Target, one may easely warde both edgeblowes and thrustes, and with the square Target, better than with any other, he may warde edgeblowes, because it is of square forme: and the edge of the sword may easely be retained with the streight side thereof, which is not so easely done with the buckler: for ouer and besides the warding of thrustes, the buckler is not so sure of itself, but re- [147] quireth aide of the sworde. Edge-blowes also when they come a thwart (for in that case, they incounter the circumference thereof: the which if it chaunce, the sword not to encounter on the diameter, or halfe, in which place the sword is onelie staied, but doth encounter it, either beneath, either aboue the said diameter (maie easelie slippe and strike either the heade or thighs: therfore let euetie man take heede and remember, that in striking at the buckler, either with the poynte or edge of the sword, he deliuer it crossing or a thwarte. | ||
As concerning the falses and deceits, which may be used in the handling of these weapons, as at the single sword, they are infinite, so at these weapons they are much more, if the number of infinite may be exceeded. For besides, that with the sword one may false a thrust, an edge-blow, on high, a low, within without, and frame diverse other unorderly wards, There remains one deceit or false properly belonging unto these, which is, to bear the buckler, square Target, or round Target, wide from the body, and therewithal to discover himself, to the end the enemy may be hindered, and lose time in striking, being therewithal sure and nimble to defend himself and offend the enemy. And this he may practice in every ward, but more easily with the square Target than with the other two, because it is big and large enough, and may easily encounter and find the enemy's when it comes striking: but this happens not in the round Target, because his form is circular, neither in the buckler, because, besides his roundness, it is also small: by means of which two things, blows are very hardly encountered except a man be very much exercised in the handling thereof. And because there are two weapons, the one of offense, and the other of defense: it is to be considered, that when by means of a false thrust or edge-blow, the enemy's round Target, square Target or buckler, is only bound to his ward, and his sword remains free and at liberty, one resolve himself to strike immediately after the falsed thrust, for then he may very easily be hurt by the enemy's sword. Therefore let him remember for the most part, to false such thrusts, against the which, besides the weapon of defense, the sword be also bound to his ward, or else to false edge-blows from the knee downwards: for seeing the round target, or any of the other two, may not be used in that placed at his defense, which as soon as it is found, and thereby ensured that it may do no hurt, a man may then step forwards, and deliver such a blow as he best may without danger. |
As concerning the falses and deceites, which may be vsed in the handling of theis weapons, as at the single sworde, they are infinite, so at theis weapons they are much more, if the number of infinite may be exceded. For besides, that with the sword one may false a thrust, an edgeblowe, on high, a lowe, within without, and frame diuers other vnorderlie wardes, There remaineth one deceite or false properlie belōging vnto theis, which is, to beare the bukler, squar Target, or round Target, wide from the bodie, and therewithall to discouer himselfe, to the end the enimie may be hindred, and lose time in striking, being therewithal sure & nimble to defend himself & offēd the enimie. And this he may practise in euerie ward, but more easelie with the square Target than with the other two, because it is bigge and large inough, & may easelie encounter and find the enimies when it commeth striking: but this happeneth not in the rounde Target, because his forme is circuler, neither in the buckler, because, besides his roundnes, it is also small: by meanes of which two things, blowes are [148] very hardly encountred, except a man be very much exercised in the handling thereof. And because there are two weapons, the one of offence, and the other of defence: it is to be considered, that when by meanes of a false thrust or edgblowe, the enimies round Target, square Target or buckler, is onely bound to his warde, and his sword remaines free and at libertie, one resolue not himselfe to strike immediatly after the falced thrust, for then he may verie easelie be hurt by the enimies sword. Therefore let him remember for the most parte, to false such thrustes, against the which, besides the weapon of defence, the sword be also bound to his warde, or else to false edgeblowes from the knee downewards: for seeing the round target, or any of the other two, may not be vsed in that place, of force the sword must be there placed at his defence, which as soone as it is found, and thereby ensured that it may do no hurte, a man may then step forwardes, and deliuer such a blowe as he best may without daunger. | ||
An advertisement concerning the defenses of the false of the round target Every time one uses to false with round Target, square Target, and buckler, or as I may better say, with the sword accompanied with them, he falses either an edge-blow, either a thrust, either leaves some part of the body before discovered. Against all the falses of the edge, which come from the knee upwards, the round Target or any of the rest, must be oppressed, and then suddenly under them a thrust be delivered, against that part which is most disarmed. But if blows come from the knee downwards, they of force must be encountered with the sword, and always with the false or back edge thereof, whether that the blow be right or reversed: and therewithal the enemy's leg must be cut with the edge prepared without moving either the feet or the body. And this manner of striking is so short that it safely speeds. Moreover, all thrusts and other edge-blows, as well high as low may, nay rather ought to be warded, by accompanying the target or other weapon of defense with the sword, whose point would be bent towards the enemy, and as soon as the enemy's sword is encountered, if it be done with the false edge of the sword, there is no other to be done, then to cut his face or legs. |
An aduertisement concerning the defences of the false of the round Target. EVerie time that one vseth to false with round Target, square Target, and buckler, or as I may better saie, with the sword accompanied with them, he falseth either an edge-blowe, either a thrust, either leaueth some parte of the bodie before discouered. Against all the falces of the edge, which come from the knee vpwards, the round Target or any of the rest, must be oppressed, and then [149] suddenly vnder them a thrust be deliuered, against that parte which is most disarmed. But if blowes come from the knee downwardes, they of force must be encountred with the sword, and alwaies with the false, or backe edge thereof, whether that the blowe be right or reuersed: & therewithall the enimies legge must be cutt with the edge prepared without mouing either the feete or bodie. And this manner of striking is so shorte that it safely spedeth. Moreouer, all thrusts and other edgeblowes, aswell high as lowe may, naie rather ought to be warded, by accompaning the target or other weapon of defence with the sword, whose poynt would be bent towards the enimie, & assoone as the enimies sword is encountred, if it be done with the false edge of the sword, there is no other to be done, then to cut his face or legges. | ||
But if the sword be encountered with the right edge then if he would strike with the edge, he must of force first turn his hand and so cut. And this manner of striking and defending, does properly belong unto the round Target, square Target and buckler, and all other ways are but ane and to small purpose: for to encounter first and then to strike, causes a man to find himself either within the enemy's Target or sword, by which means he may easily strike, before either the sword or Target may ward again. |
But if the sword be encountred with the right edge then if he would strik with the edge, he must offorce first turne his hand and so cute. And this manner of striking and defending, doth properlie belong vnto the round Target, square Target and buckler, and all other waies are but vaine and to small purpose: for to encounter first and then to strike, causeth a man to finde himselfe either within the enimies Target or sword, by which meanes he may easelie strike, before either the sword or Target may warde againe. | ||
But if any man ask why this kind of blow carries small force, and is but weak? I answer, true it is, the blow is but weak, if it were delivered with an axe or a hatchet, which as they say, have but short edges, and makes but one kind of blow, but if it be delivered with a good sword in the foresaid manner, because it bears a long edge, it does commodiously cut, as soon as the edge has found the enemy's sword, and especially on those parts of the body which are fleshly and full of sinews. Therefore speaking of deceit or falsing, a man must always with the sword and round Target and such like, go and encounter the enemy's blows, being accompanied together. And as soon as he has found the enemy's sword, he shall within it, cut either the face or the legs, without any further recovery of his sword, to the intent to deliver either thrusts, or greater edge-blows: for if one would both defend and strike together, that is the most short way that is. |
[149] But if any man aske why this kind of blowe carrieth small force, and is but weake? I aunswer, true it is, the blowe is but weake, if it were deliuered with an axe or a hatchet, which as they saie, haue but short edges, and maketh but one kind of blowe, but if it be deliuered with a good sword in the foresaide [150] manner, because it beareth a long edge, it doth commodiously cut, as soone as the edge hath founde the enimies sword, and especially on those partes of the bodie which are fleshly and full of sinnowes. Therefore speaking of deceite or falsing, a man must alwaies with the sword and round Target and such like, goe and encounter the enimies blowes, being accompanied to gether. And as soone as he hath found the enimies sword, he shall within it, cute either the face or the leggs, without any farthar recouerie of his sword, to the intent to deliuer either thrustes, or greater edgeblowes: for if one would both defende and strike togeither, this is the most shorte waie that is. | ||
But when the enemy discovers some part of his body, thereby provoking his adversary to strike, and then would beat off the blow and strike him withal: in this case, either a man must not strike if he perceive not that his sword is most near the enemy, then his own Target is to the enemy's sword, or else if he would strike and be further off, he must recover his sword and void the enemy's blow, striking commodiously ether above ether somewhere else. And it is a very easy matter to lose much time, for the Target and such like are heavy, And if these motions meet with no object or stay, they pass beyond their strength. But if it so happen or chance, as I have before said, that a man finds himself more near to hurt then the enemy, then the enemy is ready to defend himself, then he must not false a blow first, and then recover his sword, but strike and drive it home at first, as resolutely and as nimbly as he may possibly: and this manner of striking pertains rather to the true art then to deceit or falsing. |
But when the enimie discouereth some parte of his bodie, thereby prouoking his aduersary to strike, and then would beate off the blowe and strike withall: in this case, either a man must not strike if he perceue not that his sword is more neare the enimy, then his owne Target is to the enimies sword, or else if he strik and be further off, he must recouer his sword & void the enimies blowe, striking comodiously ether aboue ether some wher els. And it is a very easie mater to lose much time, for the Target and such like are heauie, And if these motions meete with no obiect or steye, they passe beyond their strength. But if it so happen or chaunce, as I haue before saide, that a man findes himselfe more neare to hurte the enimie, then the enimie is readie to defend himselfe, then he must not false a blow first, & then recouer his sword, but strik & driue it home at the first, as resolutlie, & as nimblie as he may possiblie: & this maner of striking pertaineth rather to true art then to deceit or falsing. | ||
Of the falses of the two swords: or rapiers These kind of weapons have so great liberty of striking or warding, and are so intermeddled the one with the other, as no other sort of weapon is, which I may compare with these. There may be framed an infinite company of wards with these weapons, and all of them sure, except two, which are framed and borne without, and are these as follows. |
[151] Of the falses of the two Swordes: or Rapiers. THEIS kind of weapons haue so great libertie of striking or warding, and are so entermedled the one with the other, as no other sorte of weapon is, which I may compare with theis. There may be framed an infinite cōpanie of wardes with theis weapons, and all of them sure, except two, which are framed and borne without, and are theis as followeth. | ||
To bear both swords with their points backward: for this manner of warding, is as if one would of purpose cause himself to be slain: or else to bear both aloft, which a man may hardly sustain, considering the paizes of the swords are naturally heavy and tend downwards, so that the arms are much encumbered thereby. Therefore from these two which are framed without, shall be laid down, all those which may be found and may be framed in the handling of these weapons: as for example, high wards, low, wide, altered, diminished, and all those wards which are mixed, as to frame with one sword the high ward, with the other the broad ward, and to frame the low and broad ward, the high and low ward, two low wards, and two broad wards: but yet these last two are as painful as the two high wards, and therefore shall not be used. Moreover, a man may bear one sword with the point forwards, and the other backwards, and he may further, very easily find out and practice diverse other ways, if he consider in how many ways a man may move his hands, his arms, his feet, and his whole person: for each of these motions are sufficient of themselves, to alter the ward. In all these wards, he may with either hand and sword, practice to false against the enemy, sometimes by feigning, sometimes by discovery. And this is properly belonging to these weapons, to wit, to false with one, and to strike home, either with the self same, or with the other weapon: and likewise discover with the one, and ward with the self same, or with the other, the which never yet to this day was or might be done with any other weapon. For in the handling of other weapons, that which falses, does in like manner strike home, so that of force, there are spent two times: for which consideration men hold opinion, that falsing is occasion both of great hurt, and also of loss of time. But yet this happens not in these weapons, which forasmuch as they are two, and are of equal power both in striking and defending, may be handled both after one fashion. And presupposing always that one is skillful to handle the one as well as the other, he may discharge at self same time two thrusts, two edge-blows, both right and reversed. |
To bear both swords with their points backward: for this maner of warding, is as if one would of purpose cause himselfe to be slaine: or else to beare both aloft, which a man may hardlie sustaine, considering the paizes of the swords are naturally heauie and tend downewardes, so that the armes are much cumbred thereby. Therefore from theis two which are framed without, shalbe laide downe, all those which may be founde and may be framed in the handling of theis weapons: as for example, high wardes, lowe, wide, altered, diminished, and al those wards which are mixt, as to frame with one sworde the high warde, with the other the broad warde, and to frame the lowe and broad warde, the high and lowe ward, two lowe wardes, and two broade wardes: but yet these last two are as painfull as the two high wardes, and therefore shall not be vsed. Moreouer, a man may beare one sworde with the poynt forwards, and the other backewards, and he may further, verie easely finde out and practise diuers other waies, if he consider in how manie waies a man may moue his hands [152] his armes, his feete, and his whole person: for each of theis motions are sufficient of themselues, to alter the warde. In all theis wardes, he may with either hande and sword, practise to false against the enimie, sometimes by fayning, sometimes by discouerie. And this is properlie belonginge to theis weapons, to wit, to false with one, and to strike home, either with the selfe same, or with the other weapon: & likewise discouer with the one, and ward with the selfe same, or with the other, the which neuer yet to this daie was or might be done with any other weapon. For in the handling of other weapons, that which falceth, doth in like manner strike home, so that of force, there are spent two times: for which consideration men hold opinion, that falsing is occasion both of great hurte, and also of losse of time. But yet this happeneth not in these weapons, which forasmuch as they are two, and are of equall power both in striking and defending, may be handled both after one fashion. And presupposing alwaies that one is as skilful to handle the one aswelas the other, he may discharge at selfe same time two thrustes, two edgeblowes, both right & reuersed. | ||
But if he would exercise himself only in sport and play, he shall then continually use to strike his enemy with one, and defend his person with the other. Therefore when one deals against an enemy that has two swords, one of the which may always increase a pace, and strike either with a thrust, or with the edge, from that sword he must take heed to ward himself, for it is very forcible, and always brings great danger and peril with it: The other sword which was before, makes no increase of pace and therefore cannot strike more than the defense and strength of the arm will bear, and that is weak to strike, but yet very strong to defend: and the selfsame accidents and qualities, which are found to be in the enemy, are incident also to ourselves. Wherefore one finds that he stands with his right foot before, be it in any ward whatsoever, he may false with the fore sword and strike home with the same, or else he may false with his hind sword, and strike with the selfsame: or else after a third way, to wit, to false with the one, and hit home with the other: And this kind of false, does more properly belong to the two swords than any other, but yet he must take heed and very well remember that while he falses with the one, and would strike home with the same, that he bear the other directly opposite against the enemy. For whilst the enemy is bound to ward the false, and homeblowe of the one sword, he may come in with the other and strike, if he find any place either discovered or easy to enter: So that bearing this rule continually in remembrance, which is in the fight of two swords, to bear always the one directly against the enemy, to the intent to hinder him, that he resolve not himself to enter, he shall endeavor to false, sometimes with the one, and sometimes with the other sword, sometimes a thrust, sometimes an edge-blow, and then to drive it home, either with the same sword that falses, or else with the other. But in practice, and doing of all of this, it is required that he be of deep judgment, knowing presently upon the false, what art of the body the enemy discovers, increasing thither, and investing the enemy with that sword which is most nigh to that part, and with the which he may most safely strike. |
But if he would exercise himselfe onelie in sporte & plaie, he shal then continually vse to strike his enimie with one, and defend his person with the other. Therefore when one dealeth against an enimie that hath two swords, one of the which maie alwaies encrease a pace, and strike either with a thrust, or with the edge, from that sword he must take heede to warde himeselfe, for it is verie forcible, and alwaies bringeth great daunger and perill with it: The other [153] sword which was before, maketh no increase of pace and therefore cannot strike more then the defence & strength of the arme will beare, and that is weake to strike, but yet verie strong to defend: and the self same accidentes and qualities, which are found to be in the enimie, are incident also to our selues. Wherefore when one findes that he standeth with his right foot before, be it in any warde whatsoeuer, he may false with the forsword and strik home with the same, or else he may false with his hinder sword, & strike with the selfe same: or else after a third waie, to wite, to false with the one, and hit home with the other: And this kind of false, doth more properlie belong to the two swords then any other, but yet he must take heede and veriewell remember that whilest he falceth with the one, and would also strike home with the same, that he beare the other directly opposite against the enimie. For whilest the enimy is bound to warde the false, and homeblowe of the one sword, he may come in with the other and strike, if he finde any place either discouered or easie to enter: So that bearing this rule continuallie in remembrance, which is in the fight of two swords, to beare alwaies the one directly against the enimie, to the entent to hinder him, that he resolue not himself to enter, he shall indeuour to false, sometimes with the one, and sometimes with the other sword, some times a thrust, some times an edgeblowe, and then to driue it home, either with the same sword that falceth, or else with the other. But in the practise, and doing of all this, it is required that he be of deepe iudgement, knowing presently vpon the false, what parte of the bodie the enimie disco- [154] uereth, increasing thither, and inuesting the enimie with that sword which is most nigh to that parte, and with the which he may most safelie strike. | ||
And it is to be considered, that it is a very strong and short way of striking, to false with the fore sword either a thrust or an edge-blow, and to false them not once or twice, but diverse times, now aloft, now beneath, sometimes with a thrust, sometimes with an edge-blow, to the intent, to blind and occupy the enemy's both swords, and at last when fit occasion serves, to strike it home with the hind sword: but yet always with the increase of a pace. The false which may be practice with the hind sword, is unprofitable being make without the motion of a pace, for it is so short that it is to no purpose. Therefore it cannot busy the enemy's swords in such manner, that it may force him either to discover or disorder his body. From whence it may be gathered, that after this false of the hind sword, it is no sure play to strike either with the selfsame hind sword, or else with the fore sword, because the enemy was neither in any part discovered or troubled. The best thing therefore that may be done, if one would false with the hind sword, is, to drive either a thrust or an edge-blow, resolutely striking with the increase of a pace, and as the enemy moves to defend himself, to strike him with the same sword, in some place that is discovered: For he cannot strike with the other sword for by that means of the increase of the hind sword, that the sword which was before, remains now behind, So that it may not strike, except it increase a pace, and to increase again, were to spend much time. Therefore when one endeavors with the increase of a pace to force his sword within, he shall assay to strike it home, with the selfsame sword because as I have before said, to strike with the other were too long. Wherefore I will lay down this for a rule, in the handling of these weapons, that if a man false with the fore sword, he may also strike home with the same or with the other, so that he increase And if he false with the hind sword, he shall presently, and resolutely force the blow home with the same sword, but yet with the increase of a pace: but if he do not fully deliver it, he shall again procure immediately to strike home with the selfsame sword, either with a thrust, or edge-blow, be it high or low, as at that instant shall be most commodious to serve the turn. |
And it is to be considered, that it is a verie strong & short waie of striking, to false with the fore sworde either a thrust or an edgeblowe, and to false them not once or twice, but diuers times, now alofte, now beneath, some times with a thrust, some times with an edgeblowe, to the entent, to blinde and occupie the enimies both swords, and at the last when fit occasiō serueth, to strike it home with the hinder sworde: but yet alwaies with the encrease of a pace. The falce which may be practised with the hinder sword, is vn profitable being made without the motion of a pace, for it is so shorte that it is to no purpose. Therefore it cannot busie the enimies swordes in such manner, that it may force him either to discouer or disorder his bodie. From whence it may be gathered, that after this false of the hinder sword, it is no sure plaie to strike either with theselfe same hinder sword, or else with the fore sword; because the enimie was neither in any parte discouered or troubled. The best thing therfore that may be don, if one would false with the hindersword, is, to driue either a thrust or an edgeblow, resolutelie striking with the encrease of a pace, and as the enimie moueth to defend him selfe, to strike him with the same sworde, in some place that is discouered: For he cannot strike with the other sword for that by meanes of the encrease of the hinder sword, that sword which was before, remaineth now behinde, So that it may not strike, except it encrease a pace, and to encrease againe, were to spende [155] much time. Therefore when one endeuoreth with the encrease of a pace to force his sword within, he shall assaie to strike it home, with the selfe same sword because as I haue before said, to strike with the other were to long. Wherefore I wil laie downe this for a rule, in the handling of theis weapons, that if a man false with the foresword, he may also strik home with the same, or else with the other, so that he increase a pace. And if he false with the hinder sword, he shall presently, and resolutely force the blow home with the same sword, but yet with the increase of a pace: but if he doe not fullie deliuer it, he shall againe procure immediatly to strike home with the selfe same sword, either with a thrust, or edgeblowe, be it high or lowe, as at that instant shall be most commodius to serue the turne. | ||
An advertisement concerning the defenses of the two swords, or rapiers In sport or play one may stand every way against the enemy, to wit, if the enemy be on high, to settle himself at his ward, low or broad. But it is more gallant to behold and more commodious indeed to place himself against the enemy in the very selfsame foot before, and in the very same site that he is in, either high or low. For standing in such manner, the enemy may hardly endeavor with his false, to trouble or busy both swords. And moreover it must be considered, that the fore sword is that which wards both falses, and resolute blows, the which it does very easily perform: For it be borne aloft, then by the bending of the point down, it defends that part of the body, to the which it is turned. Remembering therefore these rules, which are, to stand every way as the enemy does, and to ward his falses with the fore sword, I say, where any falses or blows come: then as soon as he has warded them with the fore sword, he shall increase a slope pace, and with the hind sword deliver either a thrust at some discovered place, either a right blow with the edge at the legs, or else (which is better) shall fetch a reverse, either athwart the face, or else athwart the arms, and his blow does most easily speed: for the enemy's fore sword is occupied, and his hind sword cannot come to oppose itself against this blow: neither may it so easily strike, because (by the increase of the foresaid slope pace) the body is moved out of the straight line, so that the enemy may not so commodiously strike with his hind sword, but that he shall be first struck on the face or on the arms. |
An aduertisement concerning the defences of the two Swordes, or Rapiers. IN sport or plaie one may stande euerie waie against the enimie, to witte, if the enimie be on high, to settle himselfe at his warde, lowe or broad. But it is more gallant to beehold and more commodius indeed to place himself against thenimy in the very self same manner as he findeth him, with the self same foote before, and in the very same site that he is in, either high or lowe. For standing in such manner, the enimie may hardly endeuour with his false, to troble or busie both swords. And moreouer it must be considered, that the fore sworde is that which wardeth [156] both falses, and resolute blowes, the which it doth verie easily perfourme: For if it be borne aloft, then by the bending of the point down, it defendeth that part of the bodie, to the which it is turned. Remembring therefore these rules, which are, to stand euery way as the enimie doth, & to warde his falses with the fore-sworde, I saie, where any falses or blowes come: then as soone as he hath warded them with the fore-sword, he shall encrease a slope pace, & with the hinder sworde deliuer either a thrust at some discouered place, either a right blowe with the edge at the legges, or els (which is better) shall fetch a reuerse, either athwart the face, or els athwart the armes, and this blowe doth most easily speede: for the enimies fore-sworde is occupied, and his hinder sworde cannot come to oppose it selfe against this blowe: neither may it so easily strike, because (by encrease of the foresaid slope pace) the bodie is moued out of the straight lyne, so that the enimie may not so commodiously strike with his hinder sword, but that he shalbe first stricken on the face or on the armes. | ||
Wherefore, let every man resolve himself, (as soon as he has encountered the enemy's sword with his own fore sword) that he step in and strike with his hind sword. Neither, let him stand in fear of the enemy's hind sword: for either it cannot hurt because the body is voided (as I have said,) or else, if it may, it must presently provide to stand to his defense, and thereto is so bound, that it may do no manner of hurt. |
Wherefore, let euery man resolue himselfe, (as soone as he hath encountred the enimies sword with his owne foresworde) that he step in and strike with his hinder sworde. Neither, let him stand in feare of the enimies hinder sworde: for either it cannot hurt because the bodie is voyded (as I haue saide,) or els, if it may, it must presently prouide to stand to his defence, and thereto is so bound, that it may do no manner of hurte. | ||
Of the two hand sword For the deceits and falses of the two hand sword, there is no more regard to be taken in the handling thereof single, that is, one to one, then there is, when it is used among many: only this end is to be purposed, to wit, to move and handle with all nimbleness and dexterity, as well the edge as the point, fetching those great circular and unruly compassings, therewith as his form, greatness, and manner of holding requires. |
[137] DEL SPADONE. PER gli inganni et finte del spadone non si ha da hauer rispetto ad addoprarlo piu da solo a solo che fra molti, ma solamente si ha da hauer questo fine di muouerlo & addoprarlo con agilità & prestezza cosi di taglio come di punta facendo quei gran giri & sbaragli che richiede la sua forma grandezza, & modo di tenir, |
[157] Of the two hand sword FOr the deceites & falses of the two hande sworde, there is no more regarde to be taken in the handling thereof single, that is, one to one, then there is, when it is vsed among manie: onelie this end is to be purposed, to witte, to moue and handle with all nimblenesse and dexterity, aswel the edge as the poynt, fetching those great circuler and vnruly compassinges, therewith as his fourme, greatnesse, and manner of holding requireth. | |
Neither ought a man so much regard to fetch a small or great compass, or to strike more with the point then with the edge, but must believe only that the victory consists in the nimble and active guiding there of any manner of way. Therefore there may be framed many wards, of all the which, being a thing superfluous to reason of, I will handle only six of them, which are most commodious and usual: whereof the first may be called the high ward, the second the broad ward, the third the low ward, from which there springs all other three, towards the other side, making six in all. |
ne si deue hauere in consideratione il far giro picolo o grande ne ferir piu di punta che di taglio, ma solamente creder che la uittoria stia nell'esser presto & destro a menar in qual si uoglia modo, però si possun formar molte guardie delle quali tutte sarebbe superfluo il ragionarne onde di sei solamente si tratterà piu commode & piu usitate delle quali una si adi= [138] mandera alta la seconda largha la terza bassa, dalle quali tre ne nascono poi tre altra uerso laltra parte che son in tutto sei, |
Nether ought a man so much to regard to fetch a small or great compasse, or to strike more with the point, then with the edg, but must beliue onely that the victorie consisteth in the nimble and actiue guiding thereof anie manner of waie. Therefore there may be framed manie wards, of al the which, beinge a thinge superfluous to reason of, I will handle onely sixe of them, which are most commodius and vsuall: wherof the first may be called the high warde, the second the broad warde, the third, the low warde, from which there springeth all other three, towardes the other side, making sixein all. | |
The high ward is framed by bearing the sword and arms lifted up on high and wide from the body, with the point of sword turned towards that part, as that arm is, whose hand is place by the cross, that is to say, if the right hand shall be at the cross, and the right foot before, to bear also the sword, with his point towards that side. |
la alta sarà tenir il spadone & le braccia in alto leuate & larghe dalla uita, con il spadone con la punta uolta uerso quella parte che sarà il braccio che haurà la mano al la croce, cio e, se la man destra sarà alla croce & il pie destro inanzi, tenir ancora il spadone uerso quella parte con la punta, |
The high warde is framed by bearing the sworde and arms lifted vp on high and wide from the body, with the poynt of sword turned towardes that parte, as that arme is, whose hand is placed by the crosse, that is to saie, if the right hand shalbe at the crosse, & the right foote befoore, to beare also the sword, with his poynt towardes that side. | |
There is also another high ward opposite to this and that is, without moving the feet at all to turn the point towards the other side, that is, towards the left side and to cross the arms. And it is to be noted, that in this high ward, be it on what side it will, the sword is to be borne with the point turned downwards. |
un'altra alta opposta a questa sarà senza punto muouer i piedi uolger la punta uerso l'altra parte cioè uerso la sinistra, & incrocciar le braccia & e da auertir che in questa guardia alta sia in qual parte si uoglia, sempre si deue tenir il spadone con la punta uolta in giu, |
There is an other hie warde opposite to this & that is, without mouing the feete at all to turne the poynt towardes the other side, that is, towardes the left side [158] and to crosse the armes. And it is to be noted, that in this high warde, be it on what side it wil, the sword is to be borne with the poynt turned downewardes. | |
The second is the broad ward, and must be framed with the arms widened from the body, not high but straight. And from this springs and is framed another broad ward, turned towards the other side by crossing of the arms. |
la seconda sarà largha con le braccia dalla uita allarghate non alte ma diritte & medesmamente il spadone diritto, da questa se ne formerà un'altra largha uolta uerso l'altra parte incrociando le braccia, |
The second is the broad warde, & must be framed with the armes widened from the body, not high but straight. And from this springeth and is framed an other broad warde, turned towards the other side by crossing of the armes. | |
And the third is the low ward, and in this the sword would be borne with the point somewhat upwards. And this ward has his opposite or contrary, by turning the sword on the other side, and crossing the arms. There may be framed many other wards: As for example, to bear the sword on high, with the point backwards, to the intent to drive a down right, or cleaving edge-blow: or else to bear it low with the point backwards, to the intent to drive it from beneath upwards. But in these wards falses are to small purpose: And if there be any one of them worth using, it should be the false of an edge-blow, the which at two hand sword is not to be used at all, because there is much time lost considering that immediately after the false, he must strike home with an edge-blow. For it is not commodious at the two hand sword, to false an edge-blow, and deliver home a thrust, because the weight or swing of the sword in delivering an edge-blow, transports the arms beyond their strength, so that they may very difficultly withhold the blow to such purpose, that they may be ale as it were in that instant to deliver a thrust. Therefore the false that should be used at the two hand sword, ought always to be framed with a thrust, and then an edge-blow right or reversed to be delivered, or else to false a high thrust, and deliver it beneath or elsewhere. But yet if one would needs false an edge-blow, let him do it with the false edge of the sword, then turning it in full circle, to deliver home the edge-blow, and in striking always to increase a pace. But when this false of the back or false edge is practiced, the arms being crossed, then if he would step forwards to strike he must increase a pace with the right foot. And if in any of these wards he would false a thrust, which is the best that may be used at the two hand sword, he must observe the very same notes and rules concerning the increasing of the pace. Further the thrust is falsed, and the edge-blow delivered home at the two hand sword for no other cause or consideration, then for that the said edge-blow is far more forcible then the thrust: For the two hand sword is long, by means whereof, in the delivery of the edge-blow, it makes a great circle. And moreover, it so weighty that very little and small strength, makes and forces the blow to go with great violence. But for as much as the striking with the edge is very dangerous considering it spends much time, and especially in the great compassing of the two hand sword, under which time wary and active persons may with the sword or other weapon give a thrust, therefore for the avoiding of this danger, he must before he determine with himself to strike with the edge, first drive on a thrust, rather resolute then falsed, and as far forwards as both arms will stretch. In doing of the which, he shall force the enemy to retire so much, that he may easily thereupon deliver his edge-blow with the increase of a pace, nothing doubting that the enemy will strike home first with a thrust. Therefore when one stands at the high ward, one either side he must false a thrust, and increase a pace delivering therewithal such an edge-blow, as shall be most commodious to serve his turn, either right or reversed. And further may practice the like in the broad and low wards, in either of the which, it is more easy to false the said thrust, then in the other. |
la terza sarà bassa ma in questa il spadone uuole esser tenuto con la punta un poco all'insu, & hauera la sua bassa opposta uolgendo il spadone nell'altra parte & incrociando le braccia, molte altre guardie si possono porre come tenir il spadone alto con la punta indietro per menar di taglio fendente, ouero tenirlo basso con la punta indietro per uenir a menar di sotto in su, ma a queste guardie riescono mal le finte & se pur alcuna finta in esse douesse riuscir, sarebbe finta di taglio la quale nel spadone a modo alcuno si deue usare per che ui si perde molto tempo, douendo doppo quelle finte ancora ferir di taglio per che non torna commodo con il spadone finger il taglio & ferir di punta percioche il peso del spadone nel ferir di taglio [139] straporta le braccia onde difficilmente si puo ritener per ferir di punta, però la finta che si deura fare con il spadone deura sempre esser di punta, & ferir con il taglio o di dritto o di riuerso, ouero finger una punta alta & trarla bassa o in altro loco, & quando pure si uolesse finger il taglio, si deue finger il falso, & uoltar il tondo & ferir di taglio, & ferendo sempre crescer il passo, & quando questa finta di falso si fa hauendo le braccia in crociate & che dopo la finta si uoglia menar il riuerso, all'hora si cresce il passo sinistro, & trouandosi in qualunque delle altre guardie senza hauer le mani in croce, all'hora uolendo poi crescer a ferir si cresce il passo destro ; le medesme auertenze si danno hauer circa il crescer, uolendo in ciascuna di esse guardie finger la punta la quale e la miglior finta poßi fare il spadone, & non per altro con il spadone si finge la punta, & si ferisce di taglio se non per che il taglio ha molto piu forza che non ha la punta, per esser il spadone lungho onde forma nel ferir di taglio gran cerchio, & e poi di tanto peso che ogni poca forza lo fa colpir con gran uiolenza, 'ma percioche questo ferir di taglio e molto mal sicuro per che ui si perde molto tempo maßime nel giro grande delspadone, fatto ilqual tempo puo ogni accorto & presto ferir con spada o altro di punta, onde che per uitar questo pericolo prima che si risolua alcuno a ferir di taglio bisogna prima, spinger una punta che sia più presto risoluta che finta, per quanto si puo allungar ambe le braccia, con la quale si sara tanto ritirar l'inimicò che |
The third is the lowe warde, and in this the sword would be borne with the poynt some what vppwardes. And this warde hath his opposite or contrarie, by turning the sword on the other side, and crossing the armes. There may be framed manie other wardes: As for example, to beare the sword on high, with the poynt backewardes, to the entent to driue a downe right, or cleauing edge-blowe: or else to beare it lowe with the poynt backwardes, to the entēt to driue it from beneath vpwards. But in theese wardes falses are to small purpose: And if there be any one of them worth the vsing, it should be the false of an edgeblowe, the which at the two hand sworde is not to be vsed at all, because there is much time lost considering that immediatlie after the false, he must strike home with an edgeblow. For it is not commodius at the two hand sword, to false an edgeblowe, & deliuer home a thrust, because the waight or swing of the sword in deliuering an edge-blowe, transporteth the arms beyond their strength, so that they may verie difficultlie withhold the blow to such purpose, that they may be able as it were in that instant to deliuer a thrust. Therefore the false that should be vsed at the two hand sword, ought alwaies to be framed [159] with a thrust, and then an edgeblow right or reuersed to be deliuered, or else to false a high thrust, and deliuer it beneath or else where. But yet if one would needes false an edgeblowe, let him do it with the false edge of the sword, then turning it in full circle, to deliuer home the edgeblowe, and in striking alwaies to encrease a pace. But when this false of the backe or false edge is practised, the armes being crossed, & that presentlie after the false, one would deliuer home a reuerse, then he must encrease a left pace, And when he findeth in himself any other warde, his hands not being crossed, then if he would step forwards to strike he must encrease a pace with the right foote. And if in any of theese wardes he would false a thrust, which is the best that may be vsed at the two hand sword, he must obserue the verie same notes and rules concerning encreasing of the pace. Further the thrust is falsed, and the edge-blowe deliuered home at the two hand sword for no other cause or consideration, then for that the saide edgeblowe is farre more forcible then the thrust: For the two hand sword is long, by meanes whereof, in the deliuerie of the edgeblow, it maketh a great circle. And moreouer, it is so weightie that verie litle and small strength, maketh & forceth the blow to goe with great violence. But for as much as the striking with the edge is verie daungerous cōsidering it spendeth much time, and especially in the great compassing of the two hand sworde, vnder which time warie & actiue persons may with sword or other wepon giue a thrust, Therefore for the avoiding of this dāger, he must before he determin with himself to strik with the edg, first driue on a thrust, rather [160] resolut then falsed, and as farr forwardes as both armes will stretch. In doing of the which, he shal force the enimie to retire so much, that he may easely therevpon deliuer his edgeblowe with the encrease of a pace, nothing douting that the enimy wil strike home first with a thrust. Therefore when one standeth at the high warde, on either side he must false a thrust, & encrease a pace deliuering there withal such an edgeblowe, as shal be most commodius to serue his turne, either right or reuersed. And further may practise the like in the broad and lowe wardes, in either of the which, it is more easye to false the said thrust, then in the other. | |
And it is to be considered, when the edge-blow after the falsed thrust, is by a slope pace voided, that he suffer not his arms and sword by reason of the weight or swing thereof, far transported beyond his strength, that the sword light either on the ground or that he be forced thereby to discover all that part of his body which is before. Therefore the best remedy is, as soon as he shall perceive that he has delivered his blow in vain, that he suffer his sword to go (not with a full thwart circle, and so about his head) until the point be backwards beneath in such sort, that the circle or compass direct him to the high ward, in the which he may presently resolve himself and return either to strike again, or else defend himself on either side, so handling his weapon, as shall in that case be most for his advantage. |
& è da auertir che quando auenisse che il taglio dopo la finta andasse uoto di non si lasciar trasportar in modo al peso del spadone che si dia o in terra, o che si resti della spada scoperti, & di tutta quella parte che è dinanzi, però subito che si accorgerà di hauer menato in uano si lasciera andar il spadone non di tutto tondo in torno alla testa ma con la punta indietro per da basso di modo che il giro lo porti in guardia alta nella quale poscia subito si puo risoluer di tornar a ferir o a difendersi da qual si uoglia banda formandola secondo che in quel caso piu torna comodo. |
And it is to be considered, when the edgeblow after the falced thrust, is by a slope voided, that he suffer not his arms and sword by reason of the waight or swinge thereof, to be so farr transported beyonde his strength, that the sword light ether on the groūd or that he be forced thereby to discouer all that parte of his bodie which is before. Therefore the best remedie is, as soone as he shal perceiue that he hath deliuered his blowe in vaine, that he suffer his sword to go (not with a full thwarte circle, and so about his head) vntill the poynt be backwardes beneath in such sort, that the circle or compasse direct him to the high warde, in the which he may presently resolue himself and returne either to strike againe, or else defend him selfe on either side, so handlinghis weapon, as shal in that case be most for his aduantage. | |
The defenses of the two hand sword The defenses of the two hand sword require a stout heart, for that the sustaining of such great blows, by reason whereof, a man considers not the advantage of time, being the most principal thing of all, causes him to fly or retire back holding for a certainty that every blow given therewith, is not possible to be warded. Therefore when he deals against an enemy, who uses likewise the two hand sword, he shall oppose himself in the low ward: And when a false thrust comes, if it come so far forwards that it may join home, he ought first to beat it off, and then to force a thrust at the enemy's face, or deliver an edge-blow downwards at the arms but not lifting up the sword in a compass. But for that these falsed thrusts for the most part are far off, and come not to the body, being used only to fear the enemy, and cause him to retire, that thereby one may have the more time to deliver an edge-blow with the increase of a pace (which pace causes the blow to go with greater violence:) and farther may discern and judge, by nearness of the enemy, whether the blow will hit home yea or no, for it is easily known how much the arms may be stretched forth: Therefore when this false thrust does not join or hit home, he ought not to endeavor to beat it off, but to expect when his enemy delivers his edge-blow, and then to increase a pace, and strike him with a thrust. |
DEL DIFFENDERE COL spadone. LE DIFFESE del spadone richiedono un cuore ardito, perche il tenere quei gran colpi del sapdone & percio non uoler considerar l'auantaggio del tempo che è il principal fa che gli huomini fugono tenendo, per certo che ognibota di quello sia irreparabile, ritrouandosi dunque contra l'inimico con un altro spadone, gli si opponera sempre la guardia bassa & uenendo la finta punta se ella uien tanto inanti che possa giungere, prima che giunga si deue bater spingendoli subito una punta alla faccia oue [141] ro tirando giu di taglio per le braccia senza leuar il spadone in cerchio, ma perche queste punte finte al piu delle uolte son lontane, & non giongono alla uita, & son tratte per spauentare & far ritirar, per poter poi hauer tempo di menar il taglio con la cresciuta del passo che ua con maggior furia, & di questo poter giungere, o non, se ne può far giuditio, dalla uicinita dell'inimico,perche molto ben si fa quanto puo distender le braccia, quando dunque non potesse giungere non si deue curar di baterla ma espetar che leui il spadone per menar di taglio & in quel tempo crescer & ferir di punta, |
[161] The Defences of the two Hand sword. THe defences of the two hand sworde require a stout hearte, for that the susteining of such great blowes, by reason whereof, a man considereth not the aduātage of time, being the most principal thing of al, causeth him to flie or retire backe holding for a certaintie that euerie blowe giuen therwith, is not possible to be warded. Therefor when he dealeth against an enimie, who vseth likewise the two hand sword, he shall appose himselfe in the low ward: And when a false thrust commeth, if it come so fare forwardes that it may ioyne home, he ought first to beate it off, and then to forse a thrust at the enimies face, or deliuer an edgeblow downwards at the armes but not lifting vp the sword in a cōpasse. But for that theese falced thrustes for the most part are farr off, & come not to the bodie, being vsed onelie to fere the enimie, and cause him to retire, that therby one may haue the more time to deliuer an edge-blow with the encrease of a pace (which pace causeth the blowe to go with greater violence:) nd farther may discern & iudge, by nearenesse of the enimy, whether the blow will hit home yea or no, for it is easelie knowen howe much the armes may be stretched forth: Therefore when this false thrust doth not ioyne or hit home, he ought not to endeuour to beate it off, but to expect when his enimie deliuereth his edgeblowe, & then to encrease a pace, and strike him with a thrust. | |
But if it happen him to deal against a two hand sword, with a single sword or dagger, assuring himself that the two hand sword cannot but strike but with a thrust or an edge-blow, for the defense of the thrust he may beat it off and retire himself, but if it be an edge-blow, then, as soon as the two hand sword is lifted up, in the same time he must increase forwards and deliver a thrust, or else if he have no time to strike he must encounter and bear the blow in the first part of the sword, which is near the hilts, taking hold thereof with one hand, and striking him with the other. And this he may perform, if he be nimble and active, because the two hand sword carries but small force in that place. |
& accadendo che si ritrouasse esser contra un spadone con una sola spada o pugnale essendo certo che non puo menar se non o di punta o di taglio, per riparar le punte si puo baterle & ritirarsi, ma se uiene al menar di taglio, subito che leua il spadone bisogna iu quel tempo crescer inanzi & ferir di punta, o non hauendo tempo di ferir incontrar & sostenir il colpo del spadene nelle prime parti facendone con luna delle mani presa & con laltra ferendo, & questo uien fatto pur che si sia presto perche in quel luoco il spadone ha poca forza. |
But if it happen him to deale against a two hande sworde, with a single sword or dagger, assuring him selfe that the two hand sword cannot strike but with a thrust or an edgeblow, for the defence of the thrust [162] he may beate it off and retire himselfe, but if it be an edgeblowe, then, as soone as the two hand sword is lifted vp, in the same time he must encrease forwards and deliuer a thrust, or else if he haue no time to strike he must encounter & beare the blow in the first parte of the sworde, which is neare the hiltes, taking holde thereof with one hande, and striking with the other. And this he may performe, if he be nimble & actiue, because the twohand sword carieth but smal force in that place. | |
Of the partisan, bill, javelin and halberd Deceits or falses, are more manifest and evident in these, then in short weapons which are handled only with one hand because both the arms are moved more slowly than one alone. And the reason thereof is, that considering they are more long, they therefore frame in their motions a greater compass: and this is perceived more in edge-blows then in thrusts. Therefore the best false that may be practiced in the handling of these weapons, is the false of the thrust, and that the edge-blow ought never or seldom to be used, except great necessity constrain, as shall be declared. Wherefore in these weapons, I will frame four wards, three of them with the point forwards, of which three, the first is, the point of the sword being borne low, and the hind arm being lifted up. |
Of the Partesan, Bil, Iauelin and Holberde. DEceites or falses, are all more manifest and euident in these, then in shorte weapons which are handled onely with one hand because both the arms are moued more slowly then one alone. And the reason thereof is, that cōsidering they are more long, they therefore frame in their motions a greater compasse: and this is perceiued more in edgeblowes then in thrustes. Therefore the best false that may be practised in the handling of these weapons, is the false of the thrust, and that the edgeblow ought neuer or seldome to be vsed, except great necessitie constrain, as shalbe declared. Wherefore in these weapons, I wil frame foure wards, three of them with the poynt forwardes, of which three, the first is, the poynt of the sword being borne lowe, and the hinder arme being lifted vpp. | ||
The second is, the point high, the right arm being behind and borne at low. The third, the point equal and the arms equal: And in every one of these a man must false without, and drive it home within, or false within and deliver it without, or false aloft and strike beneath, and so contrariwise. But as he falses within or without, he ought to remember this note, which is, he must always to the intent he may go the better covered and warded, compass the hindfoot to that part, to the which the weapon shall be directed to strike home after a false. |
The second is, the poynt high, the right arme being behinde and borne alowe. [163] The third, the poynt equall and the armes equall: And in euerie on of these a man must false without, and driue it home within, or false within and deliuer it without, or false aloft and strike beneth, & so contrariewise. But as he falseth within or without, he ought to remember this note, which is, he must alwaies to the entent he may goe the better couered & warded, compasse the hinderfoot to that parte, to the which the weapon shalbe directed to strike home after a false. | ||
The fourth ward which is much used, and especially with the bill, shall be to bear the weapon with the blunt end or heel forwards, the edge being lifted up on high. And this is much used, to the intent to expect the enemy's blows, and that thereby a man may be better able to ward them, either with the heel or middle of the staff, and then to enter and strike delivering an edge-blow with the increase of a pace, the which manner of striking is most ready and nimble. The false which may be used in this ward, is when he has warded the enemy's blow with the heel of his weapon, and then would increase forwards to deliver an edge-blow, if the enemy shall lift up or advance his weapon to defend himself from the said blow, then he shall give over to deliver that blow, by retiring his weapon, and give a thrust underneath, with the increase of a pace. |
The fourth warde which is much vsed, and especially with the bill, shalbe to beare the weapon with the bluntende or heele forwardes, the edge being lifted vpp on high. And this is much vsed, to the entent to expect the enimies blowes, and that thereby a man may be better able to warde them, either with the heel or midle of the staff, & then to enter & strik deliuering an edgblo with thencreas of a pace, the which maner of striking is most ready and nimble. The false, which may be vsed in this ward, is whē he hath warded thenimies blo with the heel of his wepon, & thē would encrease forwardes to deliuer an edgeblowe, if the enimie shall lift vpp or aduance his weapon to defend himselfe from the said blowe, then he shall giue ouer to deliuer that blowe, by retiring his weapon, and giue a thrust vnderneath, with the encrease of a pace. | ||
And this kind of blow is very likely to work his effect without danger, if he aptly and nimbly used. |
And this kind of blowe is verie likely to work his effect without danger, if it be aptly and nimbly vsed. | ||
Of the pike There may be used some deceit also in the Pike, although it be a weapon void of any crooked forks, and is much more apt to show great valor then deceit. And for as much as it has no other then a point to offend, and length to defend, for that cause there may be used no other deceit therewith, then with the point: and considering true art, is not the mark that is shot at in this place: I say, it may be borne after diverse fashions, as shall be most for a man's advantage, as either at the end, either in the middle, either more backwards, either more forwards, as shall be thought most commodious to the bearer. Likewise, one may frame three wards therewith, to wit, the first straight, with the arms equal: the second with the point low, the third, the point high, falsing in each of them a thrust, either within, either without, ether high, either low, and then immediately forcing it on resolutely, but contrary to the false, and carrying always the hind foot towards that side, to the which the Pike is directed to strike. In handling of the pike, a man must always diligently consider, so to work that the hind hand be that which may rule, drive on, draw back and govern the Pike, and that the fore hand serve to no other purpose then to help to sustain it. |
[164] Of the Pike. THere may be vsed some deceite also in the Pike, although it be a weapon voide of any crooked forkes, and is much more apte to shew great valure then deceite. And for as much as it hath no other then a poynt to offend, and length to defend, for that cause there may be vsed no other deceit therewith, then with the poynt: & considering true art, is not the mark that is shot at in this place: I saie, it may be borne after diuers fashions, as shalbe most for a mannes aduantage, as either at the ende, either in the midle, either more backewardes, either more forwardes, as shal be thought most commodius to the bearer. Likewise, one may frame three wardes therewith, to witte, the first streight, with the arms equall: the second with the poynt low, the third, the poynt high, falsing in each of them a thrust, either within, either without, ether high, either lowe, and then immediatly forcing it on resolutely, but contrarie to the false, and carying alwais the hinder foote towardes that side, to the which the Pike is directed to strike. In handling of the pike, a man must alwaies diligentlie consider, so to worke that the hinder hand be that which may rule, driue on, draw back and gouerne the Pike, and that the fore hand serue to no other purpose then to helpe to susteine it. | ||
The defenses of the deceits of the weapons of the staff I have not as yet laid down the defense of the Bill, and the rest, because they are all one with this of the Pike. And I mind to handle them briefly all together, considering that in these a man may not either render false for false, or take holdfast of the weapon. And although it might be done, I commend it not, because it is a very difficult matter to extort a weapon that is held fast with both hands. That therefore which one may do to defend himself, is to have recourse unto true Art, remembering so to ward the enemy s if it were a true blow, and to strike before the enemy spend another time, in delivering his resolute thrust, And to take heed in delivery of his blows, that he be nimble and carry his body and arms so aptly and orderly applied, that the weapon wherewith he strikes may cover it wholly. |
The defences of the deceites of the weapons of the Staffe. I Haue not as yet laide downe the defence of the Bil, and the rest, because they are all one with this of the Pike. And I minde to handle them briefelie all togeither, considering that in these [165] a man may not either render false for false, or take holdfast of the weapon. And although it might bee done, I commend it not, because it is a verie difficult matter to extort a weapon that is holden fast with both handes. That therefore which one may doe to defend himselfe, is to haue recourse vnto true Art, remembring so to warde the enimies falce, as if it were a true blowe, and to strike before the enimie spend an other time, in deliuering his resolute thrust, And to take heede in deliuerie of his blowes, that he be nimble and carrie his bodie and armes so aptlie and orderlie applied, that the weapon wherewith he striketh may couer it wholy. | ||
And here I make an end of deceit, in practicing of the which, there is this consideration to be had, so, always to false, that if the enemy provide not to ward, it may reach and hit home, because being delivered in such order, it loses but little time. |
And here I make an ende of disceit, in practising of the which, there is this consideration to be had, so, alwaies to false, that if the enimie prouide not to ward, it may reach & hit home, becaus being deliuered in such order, it loseth but little time. | ||
The end of the false art |
The ende of the false Arte. |
Figures |
Archetype (1570) |
English Translation (1594) | |
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How a man by private practice may obtain strength of body thereby If nature had bestowed strength upon men (as many believe) in such sort as she has given sight, hearing and other senses, which are such in us, that they may not by our endeavor either be increased, or diminished, it should be no less superfluous, than ridiculous to teach how strength should be obtained, than it were if one should say, he would instruct a man how to hear or see better than he does already by nature. Neither albeit he that becomes a Painter or a Musician sees the proportions much better than he did before, or by hearing learns the harmony and conformity of voices which he knew not, ought it therefore be said, that he sees or hears more than he did? For that proceeds not of better hearing or seeing, but of seeing and hearing with more reason. But in strength it does not so come to pass: For it is manifestly seen, that a man of ripe age and strength, cannot lift up a weight today which he cannot do on the morrow, or some other time. But contrary, if a man prove with the selfsame sight on the morrow or some other time to see a thing which yesterday he saw not in the same distance, he shall but trouble himself in vain, and be in danger rather to see less than more, as it commonly happen to students and other such, who do much exercise their sight. Therefore there is no doubt at all but that a man's strength may be increased by reasonable exercise, And so likewise by too much rest it may be diminished: the which if it were not manifest, yet it might be proved by infinite examples. You shall see Gentlemen, Knights and others, to be most strong and nimble in running or leaping, or in vaulting, or in turning on Horseback, and yet are not able by a great deal to bear so great a burden as a Country man or Porter: But in contrary in running and leaping, the Porter and Country man are most slow and heavy, neither know how to vault upon their horse without a ladder. And this proceeds of no other cause, than for that every man is not exercised in that which is most esteemed: So that if in the managing of these weapons, a man would get strength, it shall be convenient for him to exercise himself in such sort as shall be declared. |
[144] DELLO ESERCITARSI DA SOLO PER acquistar forza. |
[165] How a man by priuat practise may obtain strength of bodie therby IF nature had bestowed strength vpon men (as manie beleeue) in such sorte as she hath giuen sight, hearing and other sences, which are such in vs, that they may not by our endeuour either be encreased, ordiminished, it should be no lesse superfluous, then ridiculus to teach howe strength should be obtained, then it were if one should say, he would instruct a man how to heare and see better then he doth alreadie by nature. Neither albeit he that becommeth a Painter or a Musition seeth the propor- [166] tions much better then he did before, or by hearing lerneth the harmonie and conformitie of voices which he knew not, ought it therefore besaide, that he seeth or hereth more then he did? For that procedeth not of better hearing or seeing, but of seeing and hearing with more reason. But in strength it doth not so come to passe: For it is manifestlie seene, that a man of ripe age and strength, cannot lift vpp a waight to daie which he canne doe on the morrowe, or some other time. But contrarie, if a man proue with the selfe same sight on the morroe or some other time to see a thing which yesterday he sawe not in the same distance, he shall but trouble himselfe in vaine, and be in daunger rather to see lesse then more, as it commonlie happeneth to studentes and other such, who do much exercise their sight. Therefore there is no doubt at all but that mans strength may be encreased by reasonable exersise, And so likewise by too much rest it may be diminished: the which if it were not manifest, yet it might be proued by infinite examples. You shall see Gentlemen, Knights and others, to bee most strong and nimble, in running or leaping, or in vawting, or in turning on Horse-backe, and yet are not able by a great deale to beare so great a burthen as a Cuntrie man or Porter: But contrarie in running and leaping, the Porter and Cuntrieman are most slow and heauie, neither know they howe to vawte vpon their horse without a ladder. And this procedeth of no other cause, then for that euerie man is not exercised in that which is most esteemed: So that if in the managing of these weapons, a man would gette strength, it shalbe conuenient for him to exercise himselfe in such sort as shalbe declared. | |
For the obtaining of this strength and activity, three things ought to be considered, to wit, the arms, the feet and the legs, in each of which it is requisite that every one be greatly exercised, considering that to know well how to manage the arms, and yet to be ignorant in the motion of the feet, wanting skill how to go forwards and retire backwards, causes men oftentimes to overthrow themselves. |
For the obtaining of this strength and actiuitie, three things ought to be considered, to witte, the armes, the feete and the leggs, in each of which it is requisite that euerie one be greatlie exercised, considering that to know wel how to mannage the armes, and yet to bee ignorant in the motion of the feete, wanting skill how to goe forwardes [167] and retire backewardes, causeth men oftentimes to ouerthrowe themselues. | ||
And on the other side, when one is exercised in the governing of his feet, but is ignorant in the timely motion of his arms, it falls out that he goes forwards in time, but yet wanting skill how to move his arms, he does not only not offend the enemy, but also many times remains hurt and offended himself. The body also by great reason ought to be borne and sustained upon his foundation. For when it bows either too much backwards or forwards, either on the one or the other side, straight way the government of the arms and legs are frustrated and the body, will or nil, remains stricken. Therefore I will declare the manner first how to exercise the Arms, secondly the Feet, thirdly the Body, Feet and Arms, jointly: |
And on the other side, when one is exercised in the gouerning of his feete, but is ignorant in the timelie motion of his armes, it falleth out that he goeth forwards in time, but yet wanting skill how to moue his armes, he doth not onelie not oftend the enimie, but also manie times remaineth hurte and oftended himself. The bodie also by great reason ought to be borne and susteyned vpon his foundation. For when it boweth either too much backewardes or forwardes, either on the on or other side, streight waie the gouernment of the arms and leggs are frustrate and the bodie, will or nill, remaineth striken. Therefore I will declare the manner first how to exercise the Armes, secondliethe Feete, thirdly the Bodie, Feete & Armes, ioynly: | ||
Of the exercise and strength of the arms Let a man be never so strong and lusty, yet he shall deliver a blow more slow and with less force than another shall who is less strong, but more exercised: and without doubt he shall so weary his arms, hands and body, that he cannot long endure to labor in any such business. And there has been many, who by reason of such sudden weariness, have suddenly despaired of themselves, giving over the exercise of the weapon, as not appertaining unto them. Wherein they deceive themselves, for such weariness is vanquished by exercise, by means whereof it is not long, but that the body feet and arms are so strengthened, that heavy things seem light, and that they are able to handle very nimbly any kind of weapon, and in brief overcome all kind of difficulty and hardness. Therefore when one would exercise his arms, to the intent to get strength, he must endeavor continually to overcome weariness, resolving himself in his judgment, that pains is not caused, through debility of nature, but rather hangs about him, because he has not accustomed to exercise his members thereunto. |
Of the exercise and strength of the armes. LET a man be neuer so strong and lustie, yet he shall deliuer a blowe more slowe and with lesse force then an other shall who is lesse strong, but more exercised: & without doubt he shall so werie his armes, handes and bodie, that he cannot long endure to labour in any such busines. And there hath beene manie, who by reason of such sudden wearines, haue suddenlie dispaired of themselues, giuing ouer the exercise of the wepon, as not appertaining vnto them. Wherein they deceiue themselues, for such wearines is vanquished by exercise, by meanes whereof it is not long, but that the bodie feete & armes are so strenghned that heauie things seem light, & that they are able to handle verie nimblie anie kinde of weapon, and in briefe ouercome all kind of difficulty and hardnesse. Therefore when one would exercise his armes, to the entent to gette strength, he must endeuour continuallie to ouercome wearines, resoluing himselfe in his iudgement, that paines is [168] not caused, through debilitie of nature, but rather hangs about him, because he hath not accustomed to exercise his members thereunto. | ||
There are two things to be considered in this exercise, to wit the hand that moves, and the thing that is moved, which two things being orderly laid down, I hope I shall obtain as much as I desire. As touching the hand and the treatise of the true Art, in three parts, that is to say, into the wrist, the elbow, and the shoulder, In every of the which it is requisite, that it move most swiftly and strongly, regarding always in his motion the quality of the weapon that is borne in the hand, the which may be infinite, and therefore I will leave them and speak only of the single sword, because it bears a certain proportion and agreement unto all the rest. |
There are two things to be considered in this exercise, to wit the hand that moueth, and the thing that is moued, which two things being orderlie laid downe, I hope I shall obtaine as much as I desire. As touching the hand and arme, according as I haue alreadie saide, it was deuided in the treatise of the true Arte, in three partes, that is to saie, into the wrist, the elbowe, and the shoulder, In euerie of the which it is requisite, that it moue most swiftlie and stronglie, regarding alwaies in his motion the qualitie of the weapon that is borne in the hande, the which may be infinite, and therefore I will leaue them and speake onelie of the single sword, because it beareth a certaine proportion and agreement vnto all the rest. | ||
The sword as each man knows, strikes either with the point or with the edge. To strike edgewise, it is required that a man accustom himself to strike edgewise as well right as reversed with some cudgel or other thing apt for the purpose, First practicing to fetch the compass of the shoulder, which is the strongest, and yet the slowest edge-blow that may be given: Next and presently after, the compass of the elbow, then that of the wrist, which is more pressed and ready then any of the rest. After certain days that he has exercised these three kinds of compassing edge-blows one after another as swiftly as he may possible And when he feels in himself that he has as it were unloosed all those knittings or joints of the arm, and can strike and deliver strongly from two of these joints, to wit the Elbow and the Wrist, he shall then let the Shoulder joint stand, and accustom to strike strongly and swiftly with those two of the El bow and the Wrist, yet at the length and in the end of all shall only in a manner practice that of the Wrist, when he perceives his hand and wrist to be well strengthened, delivering this blow of the Wrist, twice or thrice, sometimes right, sometimes reversed, once right, and once reversed, two reverses and one right, and likewise, two right and one reversed, to the end that the handle take not accustom to deliver a right blow immediately after a reverse. For sometimes it is commodious, and does much advantage a man to deliver two right, and two reversed, or else after two right, one reversed: and these blows, ought to be exercised, as well with one hand as with the other, standing steadfast in one reasonable pace, practicing them now, aloft, now beneath, now in the middle. As touching the weight or heft, which is borne in the hand, be it sword or other weapon, I commend not their opinion anyway, who will for the strengthening of a man's arm that he handle first a heavy weapon, because being first used to them, afterwards, ordinary weapons will seem the lighter unto him, but I think rather the contrary, to wit, that first to the end, he does not over burden and choke his strength, he handle a very light sword, and such a one, that he may most nimbly move. For the end of this art is not to lift up or bear great burdens, but to move swiftly. And there is no doubt but he vanquishes which is most nimble, and this nimbleness is not obtained by handling of great hefts or weights, but by often moving. |
The sword as each man knowes, striketh either with the poynt or with the edge. To strike edgewise, it is required that a man accustome himselfe to strike edgewise as well right as reuersed with some cudgell or other thing apt for the purpose, First practising to fetch the compasse of the shoulder, which is the strongest, and yet the slowest edgeblowe that may be giuen: Next and presentlie after, the cōpasse of the elbowe, then that of the wrist, which is more preste and readie then any of the rest. After certaine daies that he hath exercised these three kindes of compassing edgeblows on after an other as swiftly as he may possible And when he feleth in him selfe that he hath as it were vnlosed all those three knittings or ioyntes of the arme, and can strike and deliuer stronglie from two of those ioyntes, to witte the Elbowe & the Wrist, he shal then let the Shoulder ioynt stand, and accustome to strike stronglie and swiftlie with those two of the Elbow and the Wrist, yet at the lengh and in the ende of all shal onlie in a maner practise that of the VVrist, when he perceiueth his hand-wrist to be well strengthened, deliuering this blowe of the Wrist, twice or thrice, sometimes right, sometims reuersed, once [169] right, and once reuersed, two reuerses and one right, and likewise, two right and one reuersed, to the ende that the hande take not a custome to deliuer a righte blowe immediatlie after a reuerse. For sometimes it is commodius, and doth much aduantage a man to deliuer two right, and two reuersed, or else after two right, one reuersed: and these blowes, ought to be exercised, as well with one hand as with the other, standing stedfast in one resonable pace, practising them now alofte, now beneath, now in the middle. As touching the waight or heft, which is borne in the hande, be it sword or other weapon, I commend not their opinion any waie, who will for the strengthning of a mans arme that he handle first a heauie weapon, because being first vsed to them, afterwardes, ordinarie weapons will seeme the lighter vnto him, but I think rather the contrarie, to wite, that first to the end, he doe not ouer burthen & choak his strength, he handle a verie light sword, & such a one, that he maie most nimblie moue. For the ende of this arte is not to lifte vp or beare great burdens, but to moue swiftelie. And there is no doubt but he vanquisheth which is most nimblie, and this nimblenesse is not obtained by handling of great heftes or waightes, but by often mouing. | ||
But yet after he has sometime travailed with a light weapon, then it is necessary according as he feels himself to increase in strength of arm, that he take another in hand, that is something heavier, and such a one as will put him to a little more pain, but yet not so much, that his swiftness in motion be hindered thereby. And as his strength increases, to increase likewise the weight by little and little. So it will not be long, but that he shall be able to manage very nimbly any heavy sword. The blow of the point or thrust, cannot be handled without the consideration of the feet and body, because the strong delivering of a thrust, consists in the apt and timely motion of the arms feet and body: For the exercise of which it is necessary that he know how to place them in every of the three wards, to the end, that from the ward he may deliver strongly a thrust in as little time as possible. And therefore he shall take heed that in the low ward, he make a reasonable pace, bearing his hand without his knee, forcing one the thrust nimbly, and retiring his arm backward, and somewhat increasing his forefoot more forwards, to the end, the thrust may reach the farther: But if he chance to increase the forefoot a little too much, so that the breadth thereof be painful unto him, than for the avoiding of inconveniences, he shall draw his hind foot so much after, as he did before increase the forefoot. And this thrust must be oftentimes jerked or sprung forth, to the end to lengthen the arm, accustoming to drive it on without retiring of itself, that by that means it may the more readily settle in the broad ward, For that is framed (as it is well known) with the arm and foot widened outwards, but not lengthened towards the enemy. And in thrusting let him see, that he deliver them as straight as he can possibly, to the end, they may reach out the longer. |
But yet after that he hath sometime trauailed with a light weapon, then it is necessarie according as he feeleth himselfe to increase in strength of arme, that he take an other in hande, that is something heauier, and such a one as will put him to a little more paine, but yet not so much, that his swiftnes in motion be hindred thereby. And as his strength encreaseth, to encrease likewise the waight by litle and litle. So will it not be long, but that he shalbe able to mannage verie nimblie any heauie sword. The blowe of the poynt or the thrust, cannot be handled without the consideration of the feete and body, because the strong deliuering of a thrust, consisteth in the apt and timelie motion of the armes feete and bodie: For the exercise of which, it is necessarie that he knowe how to place them in euerie [170] of the three wardes, to the ende, that from the warde he may deliuer strongly a thrust in as little time as is possible. And therefore he shall take heede that in the low warde, he make a reasonable pace, bearing his hande without his knee, forsing on the thrust nimblie, and retiring his arme backward, and somewhat encreasing his forefoote more forwardes, to the end the thrust may reach the farther: But if he chance to increase the forefoot a litle too much, so that the breadth thereof be painfull vnto him, then for the auoiding of inconueniences, he shall draw his hinderfoot so much after, as he did before increase with the forefoote, And this thrust must be oftentimes ierked or sprong forth, to the end to lengthen the arme, accustoming to driue it on vvithout retyring of it selfe, that by that meanes it may the more readily settle in the broad vvarde, For that is framed (as it is well knowen) with the arme & foote widened outwards, but not lengthened towards the enimie. And in thrusting let him see, that he deliuer them as str ight as he can possibly, to the end, they may reach out the longer. | ||
At what time one would deliver a thrust, it is requisite that he move the body and feet behind, so much in a compass, that both the shoulders, arm, and feet, be under one self same straight line. Thus exercising himself he shall deliver a very great and strong thrust. And this manner of thrusting ought oftentimes to be practiced, accustoming the body and feet (as before) to move in a compass: for this motion is that which instructs one, how he shall void his body. The thrust of the high ward is hardest of all other, not of itself, but because it seems that the high ward (especially with the right foot before) is very painful. And because there are few who have the skill to place themselves as they ought to deliver the thrust in as little time as is possible. The first care therefore in this so to place himself, that he stand steadily. And the site thereof is in this manner, to wit: To stand with the arm aloft, and as right over the body as is possible, to the end he may force on the thrust without drawing back of the arm or loosing of time. And whilst the arm is borne straight on high (to the end it may be borne the more straight, and with less pains) the feet also would stand close and united together, and that because, this ward is rather to strike than to defend, and therefore it is necessary that it have his increase prepared: so that when the thrust is discharged, he ought therewithal to increase the forefoot so much that it make a reasonable pace, and then to let fall the hand down to the low ward, from the which if he would depart again, and offend to the high ward, he must also retire his forefoot, near unto the hind foot, or else the hind foot to the forefoot, And in this manner he shall practice to deliver his thrust oftentimes always placing himself in this high ward with his feet united, discharging the thrust with the increase of the fore foot. But when it seems tedious and painful to frame this ward, then he must use, for the lengthening of his arm, to fasten his hand and take holdfast on some nook or staff, that stands out in a wall, as high as he may lift up his arm, turning his hand as if he held a sword, for this shall help very much to strengthen his arm, and make his body apt to stand at this ward. Now when he has applied this exercise, for a reasonable time, so that he may perceive by himself that he is nimble and active in delivering these blows and thrusts simply by themselves, then he shall practice to compound them, that is to say, after a thrust to deliver a right blow from the wrist, then a reverse, and after that another thrust, always remembering when he delivers a blow, from the wrist, after a thrust to compass his hind foot, to the end, the blow may be the longer: And when, after his right blow, he would discharge a reverse, he must increase a slope pace, that presently after it, he may by the increase of a straight pace, force on a strong thrust underneath. And so to exercise himself to deliver many of those orderly blows together, but yet always with the true motion of the feet and body, and with great nimbleness, and in as short time as possible, taking always for a most sure and certain rule, that he move the arms and feet, keeping his body firm and steadfast, so that it go not beastly forward, (and especially the head being a member of so great importance) but to keep always his body bowed rather backward than forward, neither to turn it but only in a compass to void blows and thrusts. |
At what time one would deliuer a thruste, it is requisite that he moue the body & feete behind; so much in a compasse, that both the shoulders, arme & feet be vnder one self same straight lyne. Thus exercisinge him selfe he shal nimbly deliuer a verie great & strong thrust. And this manner of thrusting ought oftentimes to be practised, accustoming the bodie & feete (as before) to moue in a compasse: for this mocion is that which instructeth one, how he shall voide his bodie. The thrust of the high warde is hardest of all other not of it selfe, but because it seemes that the high ward (especially with the right foote before) is verie painfull. And because there are few who haue the skil to place themselues as they ought to deliuer the thrust in as little time as is possible. The first care therefore in this ward is, so to place himselfe, that he stande steddily. And the syte thereof is in this manner, to wite: To stande vvith the arme aloft, and as right ouer the bodie as is possible, to the end he may force on the thrust vvithout dravv- [171] ing back of the arme or loosing of time. And vvhilest the arme is borne straight on high (to the end it may be borne the more streight, & vvith lesse paines) the feete also vvould stand close and vnited together, & that because, this vvard is rather to strike than to defend, and therefore it is necessarie that it haue his increase prepared: so that vvhen the thrust is discharged, he ought therevvithall to increase the forefoote so much that it make a reasonable pace, and then to let fal the hand dovvn to the lovve vvarde, from the vvhich if he vvould depart againe, and assend to the high vvard, he must also retire his forefoot, neer vnto the hinder foote, or els the hinderfoote to the forefoot, And in this manner he shall practise to deliuer his thrust oftentimes alvvaies placing himselfe in this high vvarde vvith his feet vnited, discharging the thrust vvith the increase of the fore foot. But vvhen it seems tedious and painfull to frame this vvarde, then he must vse, for the lengthninge of his arme, to fasten his hande and take houldefast on some nooke or stafe, that standeth out in a vvall, as high as he may liftvpp his arme, turning his hand as if he held a svvord, for this shall helpe very much to strengthen his arme, and make his bodie apt to stand at his vvarde. Novv vvhen he hath applied this excercise, for a reasonable time, so that he may perceiue by himselfe that he is nimble and actiue in deliuering these blovves and thrusts simplie by themselues, then he shall practise to compound them, that is to saie, after a thrust to deliuer a right blovve from the vvrist, then a reuerse, and after that an other thrust, alwaies remembring vvhen he deliuereth a blovve from the vvrist, after a thrust to compasse his hinderfoote, to the end, the blovve may be the longer: And vvhen, after this right blovve, he vvould discharge a reuerse, he must encrease a slope pace, that presently after it, he maie by the encrease of a streight pace, forse on a stronge thrust vnderneath. And so to exercise himselfe to deliuer manie of those orderlie blovves togeither, but yet alvvaies vvith the true motion of the feet and bodie, and vvith as great nimblenesse, and in as shorte [172] time as is possible, taking this alwaies for a most sure and certaine rule, that he moue the armes & feete, keeping his body firme and stedfast, so that it go not beastly forwarde, (and especially the head being a member of so great importance) but to keepe alvvaies his bodie bovved rather backvvard than forvvard, neither to turne it but onely in a compasse to voide blovves and thrustes. | ||
Moreover, it shall not be amiss, after he has learned to strike, (to the end to strengthen his arms) if he cause another to force at him, either with a cudgel, or some other heavy thing, both edge-blows and thrusts, and that he encounter and sustain them with a sword, and ward thrusts by avoiding his body, and by increasing forwards. And likewise under edge-blows, either strike before they light, or else encounter them on their first parts, with the increase of a pace, that thereby he may be the more ready to deliver a thrust, and more easily sustain the blow. Farther, when he shall perceive, that he has conveniently qualified and strengthened this instrument of his body, it shall remain, that he only have recourse in his mind to the five advertisements, by the which a man obtains judgment. And that next, he order and govern his motions according to the learning and meaning of those rules. And afterwards take advise of himself how to strike and defend, knowing the advantage in every particular blow. And there is not doubt at all, but by this order he shall attain to that perfection in this Art which he desires. |
More ouer, it shall not be amisse, after he hath learned to strike, (to the end to strengthen his armes) if he cause an other to force at him, either vvith a cudgell, or some other heauie thing, both edgeblovves & thrustes, and that he encounter & sustaine them vvith a sworde, & ward thrustes by auoyding his bodie, and by encreasing forvvardes. And likevvise vnder edgeblovves, either strike before they light, or els encounter them on their first partes, vvith the encrease of a pace, that thereby he may be the more readie to deliuer a thrust, and more easily sustaine the blovve. Farther, vvhen he shall perceiue, that he hath conueniently qualified and strengthned this instrument of his bodie, it shall remaine, that he onely haue recourse in his minde to the fiue aduertisements, by the vvhich a man obtaineth iudgement. And that next, he order and gouerne his motions according to the learning & meaning of those rules. And aftervvardes take aduise of himselfe hovv to strike & defend, knovving the aduantage in euery perticular blow. And there is no doubt at all, but by this order he shall attaine to that perfection in this Arte vvhich he desireth. | ||
Finished |
FINIS. |
For further information, including transcription and translation notes, see the discussion page.
Work | Author(s) | Source | License |
---|---|---|---|
Figures | Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme | ||
Modernization | Norman White | Document circulated online | |
Italian Transcription | Kelly Hatcher | Index:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) | |
English Transcription | Early English Books Online | Index talk:DiGrassi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) |
Additional Resources
The following is a list of publications containing scans, transcriptions, and translations relevant to this article, as well as published peer-reviewed research.
- Di Grasso, Giacomo; George Silver; Vincentio Saviolo (1972). Three Elizabethan Fencing Manuals. Ed. by James Louis Jackson. Scholars Facsimilies & Reprint. ISBN 978-0820111070.
- Gotti, Roberto (2023). "The Dynamic Sphere: Thesis on the Third State of the Vitruvian Man." Martial Culture and Historical Martial Arts in Europe and Asia: 93-147. Ed. by Daniel Jaquet; Hing Chao; Loretta Kim. Springer.
- Grassi, Giacomo di (2013). The Way to Employ Arms with Certainty. Trans. by W. Jherek Swanger. Self-published.
- Grassi, Giacomo di (2021). Discours sur Le maniement sûr des armes: avec un traité sur les tromperies et la façon de s’exercer soi-même pour acquérir force, jugement et rapidité. Trans. by Aurélien Calonne. Self-published. ISBN 978-2955430071.