What is HEMA?
Historical European Martial Arts, or HEMA, is an umbrella term for codified combative styles used historically in Europe, whether in the medieval period, or even as late as the early 20th century. The first text that provides instruction for martial techniques in Europe was created around the start of the 14th century, and the creation of such manuals or treatises has carried forward all the way into the modern era. In practicing HEMA, we look at these source materials for techniques and tactics, and then put them to use in practical application through drilling and sparring with safe simulators of the weaponry described in the manuals.
Who Wrote the Manuals That We Study?
One of the most popular types of weapon in HEMA today, and the primary weapon we study at IFG, is the longsword, or the sword in two hands. In its heyday, this weapon served as a premiere choice for duelists, and a common battlefield sidearm. Most of the manuals we have for its use come from the Holy Roman Empire, which at the time encompassed parts of modern day Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. Additionally, several longsword sources can be found in what is now Italy, as well as England.
The tradition of Johannes Liechtenauer is an enduring and well documented source for several of our longsword (and many other weapon) manuals, with the influence of his teachings spanning over a hundred years. Some notable examples of masters who wrote their own treatises inspired by his include Sigmund Ringeck, Peter Von Danzig, Hans Talhoffer, Joachim Meyer, and many more. The Liechtenauer tradition tends to emphasize complex and creative techniques that captivate HEMA practitioners to this day.
In Italy, Fiore Dei Liberi wrote a popular manual (both now and during his life) that, among many other weapons, details the use of the sword in two hands. His manual, in comparison to the Liechtenauer tradition, emphasizes pragmatic attacks with a bit of a mean streak by modern standards. It’s also notable that he intends for most techniques with any given weapon in his system to be used with all other weapons, meaning that when reading his text one might see the same technique being used with both a dagger and a spear.
Want More Information?
Wiktenauer is a comprehensive overview of all the HEMA manuals we know of, with detailed information on most. It’s an excellent resource for anyone who is looking to know more.
