European Martial Arts

Despite the fact there is a

more than 2,400-year-old military tradition within Western civilization

of close-combat proficiency, few subjects have received as unfortunate

neglect by historians and academics than the martial arts of Western

Europe. But a growing amount of modern research has centered on the

historical methods of using various types of Medieval and Renaissance

swords and weaponry in historically accurate and martially sound manners. This emerging study of historical European

martial arts involves a fascinating combination of military

history, fencing history, literature, art, language, and archaeology.

The history of European arms and armor is

itself one of established continuity marked by sudden developments of necessitated

innovation.  As new tools were devised, so too

were new methods for using them. These methods in turn influenced still newer designs.  By studying the historical systems for employing

such arms and armor, we come to the best possible understanding for how and why they were

designed as they were. This further leads to a greater appreciation for the little known

martial arts of the age.

See the rest of the episode's full text here: www.thearma.org/HEMA.htm

Today's episode was written by John Clements of ARMA

Military History Podcast is sponsored by Armchair General Magazine and the International Research and Publishing Corporation