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| '''THE HURT OF THE HIGH WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''
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| <p>'''THE HURT OF THE HIGH WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''</p>
The truest, and surest blow that may be given when a man lies at the high ward, is, the thrust above hand, as well for that it is in the straight line, as also, because it naturally stays itself in the low ward: So that from the beginning to the ending of this blow, there is never any time given to the enemy to enter, by reason, that the point stands always directly against him. But in the discharging of this blow, a man must remember to draw his left foot near his right foot, and then to increase forwards with the right foot, and to deliver it as forcibly as he may, staying himself in the low ward.
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| '''DELLA OFFESA DI GVARDIA ALTA di spada sola.'''
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<p>The truest, and surest blow that may be given when a man lies at the high ward, is, the thrust above hand, as well for that it is in the straight line, as also, because it naturally stays itself in the low ward: So that from the beginning to the ending of this blow, there is never any time given to the enemy to enter, by reason, that the point stands always directly against him. But in the discharging of this blow, a man must remember to draw his left foot near his right foot, and then to increase forwards with the right foot, and to deliver it as forcibly as he may, staying himself in the low ward.</p>
IL PIV ''uero & sicuro colpo che si poßi trar ritrouandosi in guardia alta , è la imbrocata; per esser di linea retta, & andando a fermarsi naturalmente in guardia bassa, di mo do che dal principio al fine di questo colpo, mai si da tempo all'inimico di entrare , per star sempre con la punta uerso lui, ma nel scaricar .questo colpo, si uuol auertir di prima ritirar il pie stanco appresso il destro & lasciarla poi andar con la cresciuta del pie destro con quella maggior furia che si puo, affermandosi in guardia bassa.''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/45|2|lbl=-}}
| '''''The hurt of the high warde at single Rapier.'''''
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| {{section|Page:DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf/48|2|lbl=-}}
The truest, and surest blowe that may be given when a man lyeth at the high warde, is, the thrust above hande, as well for that it is in the straight lyne, as also, because it naturally stayeth it selfe in the lowe warde: So that from the beginning to the ending of this blowe, there is never any time given to the enimie to enter, by reason, that the point standeth alwayes directly against him. But in the discharging of this blowe, a man must remember to drawe his left foote neere his right foote, & deliver it as forcibly as he may, staying him selfe in the lowe warde.
 
  
 
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| True it is, that he may also deliver a right and reversed edgeblow at the head: or else, strike downwards from the wrist of the hand: but because he is not able to turn his wrist in so small a compass, in the discharge of an edgeblow, either high or low, but that the point of the sword will be out of the straight line, by the length of a sword, in the which (before it return) the enemy has sufficient time to strike: Therefore I would not counsel any man to use them either alone, or both together. But yet between two thrusts, they may be used together, by continuing the one after the other (though they be voided) until the last thrust, the which does safely rest in the low ward. The use of them is on this manner.
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| <p>True it is, that he may also deliver a right and reversed edgeblow at the head: or else, strike downwards from the wrist of the hand: but because he is not able to turn his wrist in so small a compass, in the discharge of an edgeblow, either high or low, but that the point of the sword will be out of the straight line, by the length of a sword, in the which (before it return) the enemy has sufficient time to strike: Therefore I would not counsel any man to use them either alone, or both together. But yet between two thrusts, they may be used together, by continuing the one after the other (though they be voided) until the last thrust, the which does safely rest in the low ward. The use of them is on this manner.</p>
| ''Ben e uero che si può trar anco un diritto & riuerscio alla testa, o uero anca all'ingiu di nodo di mano , ma per non si poter uolger in pugno tanto poco per trar colpo di taglio o alto o basso che non s'alon tani la punta della spada dalla linea retta la lungazza duna spada , nella qual prima che si torni, si da tempo all'inimico di ferir; però non darei per consiglìo ad alcuno di usarli. Soli ne ambi doi insieme, ma si ben fra due imbroccate continuan do l'uno dietro all'altro se uan d'essetto uuoii sin al'ultima imbroccata, la qual poi s'asicura in guardia bassa. Il modo di usar li e questo.''
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| True it is, that he may also deliver a right and reversed edgeblowe at the head: or els, strike downwardes from the wrist of the hand: but because he is not able to turne his wrist in so small a compasse, in the discharge of an edgeblowe, either high or lowe, but that the poynt of the sworde will be out of the straight lyne, by the length of a sworde, in the which (before it returne) the enimie hath sufficient time to strike: Therefore I would not councell any man to use them either alone, or both togither. But yet betweene two thrusts, they may be verie well used togither, by continuing the one after the other (though tye be voyded) untill the last thrust, the which doth safely rest it selfe in the lowe ward. The use of them is one this manner.
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| When one having discharged a thrust from the high ward, perceives that it does not hurt, because it was voided by the enemy's sword, he must turn a right edgeblow from the wrist athwart the enemy's head, fetching a compass with his foot behind him toward the right side, to the end the blow may be the longer, which is the longest of all others. But if the enemy void this in like case (which is very difficult) then he must suddenly turn the reverse from his elbow increasing therewithall a slope pace with the hindfoot. And it is to be noted, that in delivering a reverse, the slope pace is in a manner always to be used, to the end he may go forth of the straight line, in the which (if he should deliver it) he may easily be struck. Having used this pace and reverse, whether it hit or not, the sword in the same instant is something to be drawn or slid: which drawing is profitable in this, that in giving the reverse it does both cause the weapon to cut, and make the greater blow. Wherefore it is to be understood, that all edgeblows ought so to be delivered, that they may cut: for being directly given without any drawing, they cause but a small hurt.
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| <p>When one having discharged a thrust from the high ward, perceives that it does not hurt, because it was voided by the enemy's sword, he must turn a right edgeblow from the wrist athwart the enemy's head, fetching a compass with his foot behind him toward the right side, to the end the blow may be the longer, which is the longest of all others. But if the enemy void this in like case (which is very difficult) then he must suddenly turn the reverse from his elbow increasing therewithall a slope pace with the hindfoot. And it is to be noted, that in delivering a reverse, the slope pace is in a manner always to be used, to the end he may go forth of the straight line, in the which (if he should deliver it) he may easily be struck. Having used this pace and reverse, whether it hit or not, the sword in the same instant is something to be drawn or slid: which drawing is profitable in this, that in giving the reverse it does both cause the weapon to cut, and make the greater blow. Wherefore it is to be understood, that all edgeblows ought so to be delivered, that they may cut: for being directly given without any drawing, they cause but a small hurt.</p>
| ''Che ritrouandosi hauer spinta la punta di guardia alta senza offesa per esser stata riparata da la spada inimica, subito si dee uolgere il mandiritto di nodo a trauerso la testa girando alquanto il piede di dietro nella parte destra per allun gar piu quel taglio , ilquale per sua natura e piu dngo dogn'altro colpo. Et se l'inimico riparasse questo che é assai dificile, subito si dee uolger il riuerso del gombito crescendo il piede di dietro un passo obliquo . Et é' da auertire che sempre quasi nel trar il riuerscio si deue usar questo passo obliquo, per uscir della linea retta nella qual facilmente trando riuersi si puo esser ferito , però fatto questo passo & tratto il riuerscio o colga o non colga se li deue subìto ritirando alqnanto la spada, il qual ritirar uien in cio ad esser utile, c'hauendo, con il riuerscio ferito, questo ritirar sega & fa grandißima ferita, onde é da saper che si deuerebbon tutti i colpi di taglio trar in modo che segassero,''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/46|2|lbl=-}}
 
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{{section|Page:DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf/49|2|lbl=37|p=1}} {{section|Page:DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf/50|1|lbl=38|p=1}}
  
 
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| Coming therefore to my purpose, I say: that as soon as he has so drawn his sword, he ought with the straight pace of the right foot, discharge a thrust underneath, being already prepared, the which thrust is so strong, both for aptness thereof and increase of the pace, that it pierces through any impediment withstanding it. And all these blows (beginning from the thrust abovehand, till the end of the thrust underneath) being roundly delivered one after another with such swiftness as is required, are in manner not to be warded. Besides, they have so great increase of pace, that it is not almost possible for the enemy to retire so much backward, as these increase upon him forward.
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| <p>Coming therefore to my purpose, I say: that as soon as he has so drawn his sword, he ought with the straight pace of the right foot, discharge a thrust underneath, being already prepared, the which thrust is so strong, both for aptness thereof and increase of the pace, that it pierces through any impediment withstanding it. And all these blows (beginning from the thrust abovehand, till the end of the thrust underneath) being roundly delivered one after another with such swiftness as is required, are in manner not to be warded. Besides, they have so great increase of pace, that it is not almost possible for the enemy to retire so much backward, as these increase upon him forward.</p>
| ''percioche per il diritto fan poca botta tór nando dunque a proposito dico che subito ritirata la spada, si deue con il passo diritto del pie destro scarricar la stoccata bassa gia preparata la qual é tanto forte & per la commodità &' per la cresciuta che romperebbe ogni impedimento. Et tutti questi colpi cominciando dalla imbrocata alta sino alla stoccata bassa, sendo tratti l'un dietro l'altro con quella uelocità che si richiede sono quasi irreparabili, & ui è in eßi tanta cresciuta che non é quasi poßibile che possa huomo alcuno, tanto ritraisi indietro quanto questi crescono inanti''
 
 
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| {{section|Page:DiGraſsi his true Arte of Defence (Giacomo di Grassi) 1594.pdf/50|2|lbl=-}}
  
 
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| '''THE DEFENSE OF THE THRUST OF THE HIGH WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''
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| <p>'''THE DEFENSE OF THE THRUST OF THE HIGH WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''</p>
All the fury in striking before spoken of, is utterly frustrated, when, as here it may be withstands and encounters the first thrust. For the defense whereof it is needful that he stand at the low ward, and as the thrust comes, that he encounter it without, with the edge of the sword, and increase a slope pace forward, with the hindfoot at the very same time, by which pace he moves out of the straight line, and passes on the right side of the enemy. And he must remember to bear always the point of the sword toward the enemy: So that the enemy in coming forwards, either runs himself on the sword, which may easily happen, and so much the rather, when he comes resolutely determined to strike, or else if he come not so far forwards that he encounters the sword, yet may be safely struck, with the increase of a straight pace: to which pace, having suddenly joined a slope pace, a man must return and increase again though the enemy were struck at the first increase of that pace: For if at the first stroke and increase, the enemy were not hit in the eye, it shall be of small purpose. Therefore as soon as he has used the crooked or slope pace, he must presently increase an other straight pace, the which does so much gather upon the enemy, that if he would strike him in the breast, he may thrust his sword up to the hilts.
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| '''LA DIFESA DELLA PVNTA DI guardia alta.'''
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<p>All the fury in striking before spoken of, is utterly frustrated, when, as here it may be withstands and encounters the first thrust. For the defense whereof it is needful that he stand at the low ward, and as the thrust comes, that he encounter it without, with the edge of the sword, and increase a slope pace forward, with the hindfoot at the very same time, by which pace he moves out of the straight line, and passes on the right side of the enemy. And he must remember to bear always the point of the sword toward the enemy: So that the enemy in coming forwards, either runs himself on the sword, which may easily happen, and so much the rather, when he comes resolutely determined to strike, or else if he come not so far forwards that he encounters the sword, yet may be safely struck, with the increase of a straight pace: to which pace, having suddenly joined a slope pace, a man must return and increase again though the enemy were struck at the first increase of that pace: For if at the first stroke and increase, the enemy were not hit in the eye, it shall be of small purpose. Therefore as soon as he has used the crooked or slope pace, he must presently increase an other straight pace, the which does so much gather upon the enemy, that if he would strike him in the breast, he may thrust his sword up to the hilts.</p>
<br/>TUTTA ''la furia del colpir già detto sarà nulla & uana quando nel modo che qui si uede si andarà a uietare & ad incontrar la prima punta, per il qual ripara gli é dibisogno di ritrouarsi in guardia bassa & uenendo la punta andarla ad incontrar per di fuora con il, crescendo nel medesmo tempo con il piede di dietro un passo obliquo, con il qual passo si muoue fuor della linea retta & si passa nella parte destra dell'inimico & duesi star auertito, di tenir se sempre la punta della spada uerso l'inimico, acciò, ò uenendo inanti uenga da se stesso a ferirsi ilche suol facilmente accadere, & tanto piu quante uengono risolutamente a ferir; ouero non uenendó tanto inanti che s'incontrino nella spada possino esser al sicuro feriti dalla cresciuta del passo diritto, al qua le subito fatto il passo obliquo si dee risoluere, ancor che l'inimico restasse nella prima cresciuta ferito percioche quella ferita non cogliendo nell occhio sarà di poca importanza però subito che si haurà fatto il passo obliquo, si crescera con l'altro passo retto, ilqual passo cresce tanto adosso l'inimico cha uenendo, fatto di passarlo nel petto gli si cacciera, la spada fino al'else.''
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| Now for the lofty edgeblows, both right and reversed, the rules aforesaid may suffice: To wit, the edgeblow fetches a compass. The blow of the point or thrust is the shortest, and in this blow, he that is nearest hits the soonest: So then he must thrust under any of these edgeblows. And farther, for asmuch as it is naturally given to every man to defend himself, he may encounter the right edgeblow after an other way, and that is, to encounter it with the edge of his sword, and presently, to drive therewithall a thrust at the enemy's face, and to compass his hindfoot, towards the right side behind, to the end, that the thrust may be lengthened and his body thereby covered, considering he shall then stand right behind his sword.
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| <p>Now for the lofty edgeblows, both right and reversed, the rules aforesaid may suffice: To wit, the edgeblow fetches a compass. The blow of the point or thrust is the shortest, and in this blow, he that is nearest hits the soonest: So then he must thrust under any of these edgeblows. And farther, for asmuch as it is naturally given to every man to defend himself, he may encounter the right edgeblow after an other way, and that is, to encounter it with the edge of his sword, and presently, to drive therewithall a thrust at the enemy's face, and to compass his hindfoot, towards the right side behind, to the end, that the thrust may be lengthened and his body thereby covered, considering he shall then stand right behind his sword.</p>
| ''Quanto al diritto & riuerscio alti, per diffesa di questi douerebbon bastar gli auertimenti che il colpo di taglio fa il giro, & che la punta piu breue, con quello chi e piu uicino giunge piupresto & percio ferir di punta sotto eßi colpi di taglio, pure per esser cosa naturale il difendersi anco in altro modo dico, che si puo incontrar il diritto con il fillo spingendo nellistesso tempo la punta alla faccia giranda alquanto il piede di dietro per di dietra nella parte destra per allungar piu la punta, & per esser piu coperto dietro all spada.''
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| Now for the loftie edge-blowes, both right and reversed, the rules aforesaide may suffice: To witte, the edge-blowe sectheth a compasse. The blowe of the poynt or thrust is the shortest, & in this blowe, he that is nearest hitteth soonest: So then he must thrust under any of these edgeblowes. And farther, for asmuch as it is naturallie given to everie man to defend himselfe, he may encounter the right edge-blowe after an otherwaie, and that is, to encounter it with the edge of his sworde, and presentlie, to drive there withall a foote, towardes the right side behinde, to the ende, that the thrust may be lengthned and his bodie thereby covered, considering he shall then stand right behinde his sword.
 
| Now for the loftie edge-blowes, both right and reversed, the rules aforesaide may suffice: To witte, the edge-blowe sectheth a compasse. The blowe of the poynt or thrust is the shortest, & in this blowe, he that is nearest hitteth soonest: So then he must thrust under any of these edgeblowes. And farther, for asmuch as it is naturallie given to everie man to defend himselfe, he may encounter the right edge-blowe after an otherwaie, and that is, to encounter it with the edge of his sworde, and presentlie, to drive there withall a foote, towardes the right side behinde, to the ende, that the thrust may be lengthned and his bodie thereby covered, considering he shall then stand right behinde his sword.
  
 
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| This manner of defense, may serve to ward all blows of the edge, delivered from the high ward, and it is the best way of all other, because it does not only ward, but also in one and the selfsame time, both strike and defend safely.
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| <p>This manner of defense, may serve to ward all blows of the edge, delivered from the high ward, and it is the best way of all other, because it does not only ward, but also in one and the selfsame time, both strike and defend safely.</p>
| ''Et questo modo di difender sia destoper tutti I diritti alti, percio che questo è il miglior di ogni altro per tal causa che non solo difende ma nel istesso tempo ferisce & aßicura.''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/48|2|lbl=-}}
 
| This manner of defence, may serve to warde all right blows of the edg, delivered from the high ward, and it is the best waie of all other, because it doth not onely warde, but also in one and the selfesame time, both strike and defend safely
 
| This manner of defence, may serve to warde all right blows of the edg, delivered from the high ward, and it is the best waie of all other, because it doth not onely warde, but also in one and the selfesame time, both strike and defend safely
  
 
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| This manner of thrust is called the reversed thrust. But if one would ward a reverse, he must oppose the edge of sword without, and therewithall increase a slope pace, and then deliver a thrust with the increase of a straight or right pace. And this may suffice for all that may be used against a lofty, reversed, edgeblow, as far forth as a man endeavors to oppose himself against the weapon. And this is the very same also with which may be used for the warding of the thrust.
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| <p>This manner of thrust is called the reversed thrust. But if one would ward a reverse, he must oppose the edge of sword without, and therewithall increase a slope pace, and then deliver a thrust with the increase of a straight or right pace. And this may suffice for all that may be used against a lofty, reversed, edgeblow, as far forth as a man endeavors to oppose himself against the weapon. And this is the very same also with which may be used for the warding of the thrust.</p>
| ''Chiamasi questa sorte di difesa punta riuersa. Volendo riparar il riuerstio si opponerà, pur il taglio per di fuera, & si crescerà il passo obliquo ferendo poi della punta preparata con la crescuita del passo diritto, & questo modo ancora sia detto per tutto quello che si puo usar a diffender un riuercio alto uolendo opporsi alla spada & questo è il modesmo che si usa anco per difender la punta.''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/48|3|lbl=-}}
 
| This manner of thrust is called the reversed thrust. But if one would warde areverse, he must oppose the edge of his sword without, and therewithall increase a slope pace, & then deliver a thrust with the increase of a straight or right pace. And this may suffice for all that which may be used against a loftie, reversed, edgeblowe, as farfoorth as a man endevoureth to oppose himselfe against the weapon. And this is the verie same also which may be used for the warding of the thrust.
 
| This manner of thrust is called the reversed thrust. But if one would warde areverse, he must oppose the edge of his sword without, and therewithall increase a slope pace, & then deliver a thrust with the increase of a straight or right pace. And this may suffice for all that which may be used against a loftie, reversed, edgeblowe, as farfoorth as a man endevoureth to oppose himselfe against the weapon. And this is the verie same also which may be used for the warding of the thrust.
  
 
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| '''THE HURT OF THE BROAD WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''
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| <p>'''THE HURT OF THE BROAD WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''</p>
The most sure, most true principal blow that may be used in this ward is the thrust underhand, so that a man draw his left foot near his right foot, and then discharge it with the _ of the said foot, and settle himself in the low ward.
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| '''DELL’ OFESA DI GVARDIA LARGA.'''
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<p>The most sure, most true principal blow that may be used in this ward is the thrust underhand, so that a man draw his left foot near his right foot, and then discharge it with the _ of the said foot, and settle himself in the low ward.</p>
''La Vera principale & piu sicura botta che si poßi in questa guardia usare; e la stocatta, tirando prima il pie stanco appresso il destro. Et scarirandola poi con la cresciuta del piu destro; affermandosi in guardia bassa, ''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/48|4|lbl=-}}
 
| '''''The hurt of the broad warde at single Rapier.'''''
 
| '''''The hurt of the broad warde at single Rapier.'''''
 
'''T'''He most sure, most true & principall blowe that may be used in this warde is the thrust underhand, so that a man draw his left foote neere his right foote, and then discharge it with the increase of the saide foote, and settle himselfe in the lowe warde.
 
'''T'''He most sure, most true & principall blowe that may be used in this warde is the thrust underhand, so that a man draw his left foote neere his right foote, and then discharge it with the increase of the saide foote, and settle himselfe in the lowe warde.
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| He may also in this ward with the said increase of the right foot, deliver a right edgeblow from the wrist of the hand, and stay himself in the low ward. And perchance he may (although with great danger) bestow also a reverse: yet considering he shall do it out of the straight line, in the which only he strikes safely, I do not think it good, that he use either the said reverse, either the said right blow except it be very seldom, and for the same cause, assuring himself in the blow of the point, or thrust, the which he shall not give, except it be very commodious, or that he be forced of necessity, considering this thrust does not only easily and commodiously defend, but also, at one instant, safely strike, and offend, as shall be showed in the defense of this ward. That therefore which he may safely do, in this ward, is to expect and watch for his enemy's coming.
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| <p>He may also in this ward with the said increase of the right foot, deliver a right edgeblow from the wrist of the hand, and stay himself in the low ward. And perchance he may (although with great danger) bestow also a reverse: yet considering he shall do it out of the straight line, in the which only he strikes safely, I do not think it good, that he use either the said reverse, either the said right blow except it be very seldom, and for the same cause, assuring himself in the blow of the point, or thrust, the which he shall not give, except it be very commodious, or that he be forced of necessity, considering this thrust does not only easily and commodiously defend, but also, at one instant, safely strike, and offend, as shall be showed in the defense of this ward. That therefore which he may safely do, in this ward, is to expect and watch for his enemy's coming.</p>
| ''si potrebe anco in questa guardia con la detta cresciuta di piede trar un diritto di nodo andandosi pur ad affermare in guardia bassa. Et farse si potrebbe, ben che con gran discommodo trar un riuersio. Nulla di meno per uscir troppo della linea retta nella qual sola si ferisce sicuramente non mi par che si debba usare, & forse anco poco il madritto, per il medesmo rispetto. Percio si deue aßicurar solamente nella punta, la qual anco non trauersi se gran commodità o bisogno a cio non mi spingesse; sendo che ella non solo si puo con commidita riparare, ma si puo anco sott’ essa quasi si curamento ferire come nella difesa si mostrerà. Quello adunque che piu sicuramente si puo fare ritrouandosi in questa guardia è l`aspettar l`inimico.''
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| He may also in this warde with the said increase of the right foote, deliver a right edgeblowe from the wrist of the hand, and stay himselfe in the low warde. And perchaunce he may (although with great daunger) bestowe also a reverse: yet considering he shall do it out of the straight lyne, in the which onely he striketh safely, I do not thinke it good, that he use either the saide reverse, either the saide right blowe except it be verie seldom, & for the same cause, assuring himselfe in the blow of the poynt, or thrust, the which he shall not give, except it be verie commodious, or that he be forced of necessitie, considering this thrust doth not onely easily and commodiously defend, but also, at one instant, safely strike, and offend, as shalbe shewed in the defence of this warde. That therefore which he may safely do, in this warde, is to expect and watch for the enimies commin.
 
| He may also in this warde with the said increase of the right foote, deliver a right edgeblowe from the wrist of the hand, and stay himselfe in the low warde. And perchaunce he may (although with great daunger) bestowe also a reverse: yet considering he shall do it out of the straight lyne, in the which onely he striketh safely, I do not thinke it good, that he use either the saide reverse, either the saide right blowe except it be verie seldom, & for the same cause, assuring himselfe in the blow of the poynt, or thrust, the which he shall not give, except it be verie commodious, or that he be forced of necessitie, considering this thrust doth not onely easily and commodiously defend, but also, at one instant, safely strike, and offend, as shalbe shewed in the defence of this warde. That therefore which he may safely do, in this warde, is to expect and watch for the enimies commin.
  
 
|-  
 
|-  
 
|  
 
|  
| '''THE DEFENSE OF THE BROAD WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''
+
| <p>'''THE DEFENSE OF THE BROAD WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''</p>
If a man would defend himself from the blows of the aforesaid broad ward, it is good that he stand against his enemy in the low ward: for the whilst he is so opposite in the same ward, the enemy may neither easily enter, neither commodiously defend himself. So that he which is in the low ward may very easily withstand the downright blow, and the reverse by giving a thrust, for that he shall hit him first, And if he would only oppose his sword, and not strike also therewithall, he must encounter his enemy's sword with the edge of his own, and turning the same edge fetch a reverse, striking at the face of the enemy. And as he so turns his hand and edge of his sword, it shall be good that he carry his forefoot a half crooked or slope pace towards his right side, staying himself in the broad ward. For defense of the reverse, it is to be marked, when the enemy lifts up the end of the Rapier out of the straight line, because then of force he fetches a compass: And whilst he so does, a man must make a straight pace forwards, and with his left hand take holdfast of the sword hand of his enemy, and incontinently wound him with a thrust underneath already prepared.  
+
 
| '''LA DIFESA DI GVARDIA LARGA.'''
+
<p>If a man would defend himself from the blows of the aforesaid broad ward, it is good that he stand against his enemy in the low ward: for the whilst he is so opposite in the same ward, the enemy may neither easily enter, neither commodiously defend himself. So that he which is in the low ward may very easily withstand the downright blow, and the reverse by giving a thrust, for that he shall hit him first, And if he would only oppose his sword, and not strike also therewithall, he must encounter his enemy's sword with the edge of his own, and turning the same edge fetch a reverse, striking at the face of the enemy. And as he so turns his hand and edge of his sword, it shall be good that he carry his forefoot a half crooked or slope pace towards his right side, staying himself in the broad ward. For defense of the reverse, it is to be marked, when the enemy lifts up the end of the Rapier out of the straight line, because then of force he fetches a compass: And whilst he so does, a man must make a straight pace forwards, and with his left hand take holdfast of the sword hand of his enemy, and incontinently wound him with a thrust underneath already prepared.</p>
<br/>''Volendosi difender dalli colpi che escono dall sopradetta guardia larga è buono ritrouraseli contra in guardia bassa; percioche l`esserli opposto nella medesma guardia; non porge facilità di entrare; & torna molot discommoda al difendere, onde che ritroundaosigli in guardia bassa si puo facilmente & commodamente uietar il mandritto & riuerscio con il spinger, per che si giungerà prima & uolendosi pur oppor alla spada & non ferirli soto, si deura incontrar la spada inimca con il filo uolgendol poi subito ferendo di riuerso la faccia inimica, & con questo uolger di mano & di taglio sarà buono portrar il pie dinanzi mezo passo obliquo nella parte destra affermandosi in guardia larga. Alla difesa del riuerso si deue star auertito quando l`inimico leua la punta della spada dalla linea retta, percio che è forza che giri, & in quel tépo có la sinistra mano facendo un passo retto si deue prender la mano dell`inimico della spada, & ferirlo nel modesimo tempo d’una punta di sotto già preparata per riparo della stocata''
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| '''''The Defence of the broad Ward at single Rapier.'''''
 
| '''''The Defence of the broad Ward at single Rapier.'''''
 
<br/>'''I'''F a man would defend himselfe from the blowes of the foresaide broad warde, it is good that he stande against the enimie in the lowe warde: for whilest he is so opposite in the same warde, the enimie may neither easily enter, neither commodiously defend himselfe. So that he which is in the lowe warde may very easily withstand the downright blow, and the reverse by giving a thrust, for that he shall hit him first, And if he would onely oppose his sworde, and not strike also therewithall, he must encounter the enimies sword with the edge of his owne, and turning the same edge fetch a reverse, striking at the face of the enimie. And as he so turneth his hand and edge of his sworde, it shalbe good that he carrie his forefoote a halfe crooked or slope pace towards his right side, staying himselfe in the broad warde. For defence of the reverse, it is to be marked, when the enimie lifteth up the point of the Rapier out of the straight lyne, because then of force he fetcheth a compasse: And whilest he so doth, a man must make a straight pace forwardes, and with his left hande take holdfast of the sworde hande of the enimie, and incontinently wound him with a thrust underneath alreadie prepared.
 
<br/>'''I'''F a man would defend himselfe from the blowes of the foresaide broad warde, it is good that he stande against the enimie in the lowe warde: for whilest he is so opposite in the same warde, the enimie may neither easily enter, neither commodiously defend himselfe. So that he which is in the lowe warde may very easily withstand the downright blow, and the reverse by giving a thrust, for that he shall hit him first, And if he would onely oppose his sworde, and not strike also therewithall, he must encounter the enimies sword with the edge of his owne, and turning the same edge fetch a reverse, striking at the face of the enimie. And as he so turneth his hand and edge of his sworde, it shalbe good that he carrie his forefoote a halfe crooked or slope pace towards his right side, staying himselfe in the broad warde. For defence of the reverse, it is to be marked, when the enimie lifteth up the point of the Rapier out of the straight lyne, because then of force he fetcheth a compasse: And whilest he so doth, a man must make a straight pace forwardes, and with his left hande take holdfast of the sworde hande of the enimie, and incontinently wound him with a thrust underneath alreadie prepared.
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|  
 
|  
| Now, the very same defense is to be used against the thrust underneath, which is against the right edgeblow. Neither is there any other difference between these two defenses, but that whilst the right blow fetches his compass, a man may give a thrust and hit him first: For the thrust underneath, must only of necessity be warded, because, coming in the straight line, it ministers no advantage or time to hit home first.
+
| <p>Now, the very same defense is to be used against the thrust underneath, which is against the right edgeblow. Neither is there any other difference between these two defenses, but that whilst the right blow fetches his compass, a man may give a thrust and hit him first: For the thrust underneath, must only of necessity be warded, because, coming in the straight line, it ministers no advantage or time to hit home first.</p>
| ''si deue usar la medesma difesa che si fa nel diritto ne in qusto due difese ui è altra differenza se non che sotto il diritto si può nel tempo del giro spinger la punta & giunger prima, che la stocata di neceßità deue esser riparata percioche uenendo per linea retta non porge auantaggio o tempo di giunger prima.''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/50|2|lbl=-}}
 
| Now, the verie same defence is to be used against the thrust underneath, which is against the right edgeblowe. Neither is there any other difference between these two defences, but that whilest the right blowe fetcheth his compas, a man may give a thrust and hit home first: For the thrust underneath, must onely of necessitie be warded, because, coming in the straight lyne, it ministreth no advantage or time to hit home first.
 
| Now, the verie same defence is to be used against the thrust underneath, which is against the right edgeblowe. Neither is there any other difference between these two defences, but that whilest the right blowe fetcheth his compas, a man may give a thrust and hit home first: For the thrust underneath, must onely of necessitie be warded, because, coming in the straight lyne, it ministreth no advantage or time to hit home first.
  
 
|-  
 
|-  
 
|  
 
|  
| '''THE HURT OF THE LOW WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''
+
| <p>'''THE HURT OF THE LOW WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''</p>
A Man may in like manner in this ward, as in others, deliver a thrust, a right blow, and a reverse: but the true and principal effect of this ward, is to expect the enemy, as well for that a man bears himself without wariness, as also, because it is apt and ready to defend all blows either high or low: For being in the middle, it is easily somewhat lifted up, as something borne down: So that when one stands in this ward, he may not (as for his advantage) be the first that shall give either the downright blow, or the reverse: for both the one and the other (departing out of the straight line) are deadly, because they give time to the enemy to enter nimbly with a thrust. The thrust therefore, may be only used when one means to strike first, and it is practiced either within, or without, always regarding in either of the ways, so to bear and place his arm, that he have no need (before he thrust) to draw back the same. The enemy ward it, by the traverse or cross motion of his Rapier, as many use to do, then he ought to increase a straight pace and lift up his sword hand, holding the point thereof downwards betwixt the enemy's arm and his body and with the increase of a straight pace to deliver a thrust. And this manner of thrust does easily speed, because it increases continually in the straight line in such sort that the enemy can do no other then give back, and especially when it is done without, for then the sword is safe from the traverse motion of the other sword.
+
 
| '''DELLA OFESA DI GVARDIA BASSA.'''
+
<p>A Man may in like manner in this ward, as in others, deliver a thrust, a right blow, and a reverse: but the true and principal effect of this ward, is to expect the enemy, as well for that a man bears himself without wariness, as also, because it is apt and ready to defend all blows either high or low: For being in the middle, it is easily somewhat lifted up, as something borne down: So that when one stands in this ward, he may not (as for his advantage) be the first that shall give either the downright blow, or the reverse: for both the one and the other (departing out of the straight line) are deadly, because they give time to the enemy to enter nimbly with a thrust. The thrust therefore, may be only used when one means to strike first, and it is practiced either within, or without, always regarding in either of the ways, so to bear and place his arm, that he have no need (before he thrust) to draw back the same. The enemy ward it, by the traverse or cross motion of his Rapier, as many use to do, then he ought to increase a straight pace and lift up his sword hand, holding the point thereof downwards betwixt the enemy's arm and his body and with the increase of a straight pace to deliver a thrust. And this manner of thrust does easily speed, because it increases continually in the straight line in such sort that the enemy can do no other then give back, and especially when it is done without, for then the sword is safe from the traverse motion of the other sword.</p>
SI PUO ''parimente in questa guardia si come nell’altre ferir di punta, taglio diritto riuerso, ma il uero & principal effetto di essa, è l’aspettar l`inimico, si perche in essa si puo tratenir algnanto l’huomo senza stancarsi, s ianco perche è molto atta à riparar con prestezza tutti i colpi si alti come baßi. Percioche essendo nel mezzo puo facilmente un poco alzarsi & alquanto abbassarsi. Ritrouandosi dunque alcuno in questa guardia non deue per suo auantaggio esser primo a trar mandritto o riuerso percioche partendosi l’uno & l’altro dalla linea retta possono esser causa di morte, dando tempo all’inimico di presto entrar di punta. La punta sola si puo usar uolendo esser primo a ferire, & si può trar o dentro o di fuori. Auertendo però in l’uno & l’altro modo di hauer il braccio in tal modo situato. Che non sia bisogno prima che si spinga ritirarlo, & uenendo questa punta riparata dall’inimico con la spada di trauerso, come alcuni sogliono. All’hora si deue crescer un passo diritto & alziar la mano dalla spada facendo andar la punta in giu tra la spada & la uita, all uita, dell’inimico spingendo la punta con la cresciuta del passo diritto del pie destro & questa punta suol facilmente ferir percioche ua crescendo & continuamente per linea retta di modo che l’inimico non puo far altro che ritirarsi & maximamente quando si ferisce per di fuora per trouarsi a quel modo la spada al sicruo di trauerso.''
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| '''''The hurt of the Lowe warde at single Rapier.'''''
 
| '''''The hurt of the Lowe warde at single Rapier.'''''
 
A Man may in like maner in this ward, as in others, deliver a thrust, a right blowe, and a reverse: but the true and principall effect of this warde, is to expect the enimie, as well for that a man beareth him selfe without warinesse, as also, because it is apt and readie to defende all blowes either high or lowe: For being in the middle, it is as easily somewhat lifted up, as something borne downe: So that when one standeth in this warde, he may not (as for his advantage) be the first that shall give either the down-right blowe, or the reverse: for both the one and the other (departing out of the straight lyne) are deadly, because they give time to the enimie to enter nimbly with a thrust, The thrust therefore, may be only used when one meaneth to strike first, and it is practised either within, or without, alwaies regarding in either of the waies, so to beare and place his arme, that he have no neede (before he thrust) to drawe backe the same. And if the enimie warde it, by the traverse or crosse motion of his Rapier, as many use to do, then he ought to encrease a straight pace and lift up his sword hand, holding the point thereof downwards betwixt the enimies arme and his bodie, & with the encrease of a straight pace to deliver a thrust. And this maner of thrust doth easily speede, because it increaseth continually in the straight lyne in such sort that the enimie can do no other then give backe, and especially when it is done without, for then the sworde is safe from the traverse motion of the other sworde.
 
A Man may in like maner in this ward, as in others, deliver a thrust, a right blowe, and a reverse: but the true and principall effect of this warde, is to expect the enimie, as well for that a man beareth him selfe without warinesse, as also, because it is apt and readie to defende all blowes either high or lowe: For being in the middle, it is as easily somewhat lifted up, as something borne downe: So that when one standeth in this warde, he may not (as for his advantage) be the first that shall give either the down-right blowe, or the reverse: for both the one and the other (departing out of the straight lyne) are deadly, because they give time to the enimie to enter nimbly with a thrust, The thrust therefore, may be only used when one meaneth to strike first, and it is practised either within, or without, alwaies regarding in either of the waies, so to beare and place his arme, that he have no neede (before he thrust) to drawe backe the same. And if the enimie warde it, by the traverse or crosse motion of his Rapier, as many use to do, then he ought to encrease a straight pace and lift up his sword hand, holding the point thereof downwards betwixt the enimies arme and his bodie, & with the encrease of a straight pace to deliver a thrust. And this maner of thrust doth easily speede, because it increaseth continually in the straight lyne in such sort that the enimie can do no other then give backe, and especially when it is done without, for then the sworde is safe from the traverse motion of the other sworde.
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|-  
 
|-  
 
|  
 
|  
| '''THE DEFENSE OF THE LOW WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''
+
| <p>'''THE DEFENSE OF THE LOW WARD AT SINGLE RAPIER'''</p>
Because both the downright blow, and the reverse are very easily defended in this ward, I will not stand to speak of any other then of the thrust, restraining myself thereunto. The which thrust, if at the first it be not withstood, may prove very mortal and deadly. Therefore, when this thrust is given within, it must be beaten inwards with the edge of the Rapier, requiring the turn of the hand also inwards, and the compass of the hindfoot, so far towards the right side, as the hand goes towards the right side. And the enemy shall no sooner have delivered the thrust, and he found the sword, but he ought to turn his hand, and with a reverse to cut the enemy's face, carrying always his forefoot on that side where his hand goes. If the enemy's thrust come outwards, then it is necessary, that with the turn of his hand he beat it outwards with the edge of his sword increasing in the same instant one slope pace, by means whereof he delivers his body from hurt. And therewithall (increasing another straight pace, and delivering his thrust already prepared) he does most safely hurt the enemy.
+
 
| '''DIFESA DI GVARDIA BASSA.'''
+
<p>Because both the downright blow, and the reverse are very easily defended in this ward, I will not stand to speak of any other then of the thrust, restraining myself thereunto. The which thrust, if at the first it be not withstood, may prove very mortal and deadly. Therefore, when this thrust is given within, it must be beaten inwards with the edge of the Rapier, requiring the turn of the hand also inwards, and the compass of the hindfoot, so far towards the right side, as the hand goes towards the right side. And the enemy shall no sooner have delivered the thrust, and he found the sword, but he ought to turn his hand, and with a reverse to cut the enemy's face, carrying always his forefoot on that side where his hand goes. If the enemy's thrust come outwards, then it is necessary, that with the turn of his hand he beat it outwards with the edge of his sword increasing in the same instant one slope pace, by means whereof he delivers his body from hurt. And therewithall (increasing another straight pace, and delivering his thrust already prepared) he does most safely hurt the enemy.</p>
SENDO ''sicurißima & facdifesa del diritto & riuerso di questa guardia non ne starò per hora adir altro ristringend mi solo all punta, la quale non uenendo uietata in principio puo esser causa di morte. Sendo dunque tratta questa punta di dentro, si si deue batterla con il filo per di dentro & questo si adimanda uolta di mano indentro girando tanto il pie di dietro nella parte destra quanto la mano ua la sinistra & trouata & spinta che si ha la spada inimica si deue uolger la mano & tagliar di riuerso alla faccia portando pur sempre il piede dinanzi in quella parte oueua la mano. Se mo questa punta uenirà per di fuora, bisogna pur spingerla con il’filo & uolta di mano infuora, crescnedo nell’istesso tempo un passo obl;iquo, mediante il quale si teua la uita dall’ofesa, & crescendo l’altro passo diritta spingendo la punta perparata, si ua al sicro a ferir l’inimico.''
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| {{section|Page:Ragione di adoprar sicuramente l'Arme (Giacomo di Grassi) 1570.pdf/51|2|lbl=-}}
 
| '''''The Defence of the Lowe warde at single Rapier.'''''
 
| '''''The Defence of the Lowe warde at single Rapier.'''''
 
'''B'''Ecause both the down-right blowe, and the reverse are verie easily defended in this warde, I will not stand to speake of any other then of the thrust, restraining my selfe thereunto. The which thrust, if at the first it be not withstoode, may prove verie mortall & deadly. Therefore, when this thrust is given within, it must be beaten inwardes with the edge of the Rapier, requiring the turne of the hand also inwards, and the compasse of the hinder foote, so farre towards the right side, as the hande goeth towardes the right side. And the enimie shall no sooner have delivered the thrust, and he found the sword, but he ought to turne his hand, and with a reverse to cut the enimies face, carying alwaies his forefoote on that side where his hand goeth. If the enimies thrust come outwardes, then it is necessarie, that with the turne of his hand he beat it outwards with the edge of his sword encreasing in the same instant one slope pace, by meanes whereof he delivereth his bodie from hurt. And therewithall (encreasing another straight pace, and delivering his thrust alreadie prepared) he doth most safely hurt the enimie.
 
'''B'''Ecause both the down-right blowe, and the reverse are verie easily defended in this warde, I will not stand to speake of any other then of the thrust, restraining my selfe thereunto. The which thrust, if at the first it be not withstoode, may prove verie mortall & deadly. Therefore, when this thrust is given within, it must be beaten inwardes with the edge of the Rapier, requiring the turne of the hand also inwards, and the compasse of the hinder foote, so farre towards the right side, as the hande goeth towardes the right side. And the enimie shall no sooner have delivered the thrust, and he found the sword, but he ought to turne his hand, and with a reverse to cut the enimies face, carying alwaies his forefoote on that side where his hand goeth. If the enimies thrust come outwardes, then it is necessarie, that with the turne of his hand he beat it outwards with the edge of his sword encreasing in the same instant one slope pace, by meanes whereof he delivereth his bodie from hurt. And therewithall (encreasing another straight pace, and delivering his thrust alreadie prepared) he doth most safely hurt the enimie.
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| class="noline" |  
| class="noline" | ''Il Fine della sola spada''
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Revision as of 02:55, 11 June 2020

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 Trevino 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, translated by an admirer named Thomas Churchyard and published by an I. Iaggard.

Treatise

This presentation includes a modernized version of the 1594 English translation, which did not follow the original Italian text with exactness. This will hopefully be replaced eventually by a translation incorporating both versions.

Temp

Temp

Additional Resources

References