Elizabethan Fencing

The term Elizabethan fencing is used to denote fencing techniques that were developed by the English during the 16th and 17th centuries.  “Elizabethan” refers to the era in which Queen Elizabeth reigned and is believed by many to be England’s “golden age”.  One popular book written on Elizabethan fencing is entitled Paradoxes of Defense written by George Silver.  In his writing Silver was firmly opposed to the use of the then popular rapier as the fencers weapon of choice and encouraged the use of not only English weapons, but also English techniques. 

Silver’s work warns its readers of the danger they face when using Spanish or Italian fencing techniques.  Elizabethan fencing masters also often included teachings about honor and philosophy as an integral part of fencing. 

Elizabethan fencing differed much from other styles prevalent in its day.  For example a gentleman taught in the art of Elizabethan fencing would often focus more on thrusting much like modern fencing practices.  Elizabeth fencing also taught the importance of a fencer’s stance.  The weapon leg was kept to the rear the sword was not used for defensive measures.  Elizabethan fencing required its user to parry using either an off-hand weapon or even a special mailed palm glove.

Fencing in general was used more by gentlemen of the time because it was taught as an art form.  An individual certainly could have learned broadsword techniques but by many of the upper-crust that was considered debasing as it required sweating and lowering ones standards to associate with those on the lower rung of society.  Things like physical attacks (grabbing, tripping and shoving) were considered barbaric ways to win. 

Today you will find many who not only study Elizabethan fencing but also adhere to its philosophies. One can find many manuals on the study of Elizabethan fencing as well as societies to join in order to study period fencing.