An unprecedented study of the body mechanics of the sword, written by a world-renowned expert in Historical European Martial Arts. Full color with detailed illustrations.

An extensive and thorough study of the origins, development and usage of the glamorous two-edged knightly sword of the European middle ages, with a complete typology. Spanning the period from the great migrations to the Renaissance, this book presents a selection from a very large body of photographs and research and gives a full and detailed record of the swords of that turbulent time.

This is the most thorough work ever about historical swordsmanship. It is both a general reference and an instructional guide for advanced and beginning sword enthusiasts, students of military history and martial artists. Includes rare historical info and 100 original drawings.

Ever wonder how good you’d be with a sword? This book is for you. Do love movie sword fights? Learn how real sword fights work. Are you into stage combat? Add depth with historically accurate technique. You’re a bad uncle looking for a present for your niece? Get her this book, though her parents might hate you. Or do you just like swords? If you’ve ever wanted to turn your sword dreams into reality, then this book is for you. Anyone can learn the medieval Art of the longsword. This book will give you a thorough grounding in the techniques and tactics from the 600-year-old manuscript Il Fior di Battaglia, and includes free access to additional resources such as videos and full-sized images, to help you translate the movements from page to real life. Sure, it’s a 600-year old manuscript, but you know what? People who studied this manuscript lived. Why not stick with something that works? The Medieval Longsword covers everything you need to know from tools of the trade, to footwork, strikes and defences, to how to exploit your adversary’s mistakes, and how to disarm your opponent. This complete and approachable guide to the Art of Arms provides a gateway to a world-wide community of likeminded people also practicing this historical martial art. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a competent fencer, this book by author and internationally renowned swordsman Guy Windsor will guide you towards mastery of this ancient Art.

First published: London: The British Museum Press, 2004.

Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) is based on reading source material to recreate the lost martial arts of Europe. While reading the treatises and performing depicted techniques helps understand HEMA, there is more to it. The sources were not written and illustrated in a vacuum, but rather in a rich and complicated world. Historical European Martial Arts in its Context places the sources in a time and place with details about single-combat, duels, tournaments, self-defense, war as well as the Masters and their treatises. Richard Marsden approaches the 'why' behind the treatises and delves into Europe's martial culture from the 14th through 18th century. HEMA is thus explored on the blood-soaked fields of battle, in the dark alleys of dangerous cities, and under the shade of trees where illicit duels might be fought.