His Practice in Modern and Elizabethan English: A Treatise on the Use of the Civilian Sword (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780987644725)

His Practice represents the culmination of more than two decades of intense research by renowned fencing master Henry Walker, author of Un-Blogged: A Fencer's Ramblings. Readers are treated to both instruction and discussion on how the rapier was used in the streets of Elizabethan England, to settle matters of honour, and also for self-defence in shady back-alleys. Learn everything from the basic, through to the more subtle and complex aspects of the sword in this cleverly crafted, period-inspired system you can both understand and learn from. Partly written in Elizabethan English, this book will gently guide those studying swordsmanship - or the Elizabethan language and the surrounding culture - towards a deeper understanding of the idiosyncrasies of period language treatises. With additional discussions on duelling and social attitudes toward the use of the sword, and the cultural aspects associated, His Practice is an education in the mind of the Elizabethan gentleman and experienced fencer. This long-awaited masterpiece generously explores a vast array of topics around historical swordsmanship presented in both Modern and Elizabethan English. It presents the ideal introduction for readers at the beginning of their research journey in this field - both culturally, and linguistically.