09-29-2013, 06:38 PM
Gaugler's book is indeed interesting and solid, I'd point out that he was firmly in the tradition of the late Italian school though and advocated an Italian grip and seemed to be thoroughly enamoured with the Nadis.
It was...an interesting period in the modern sport overall, however its worth pointing out that the entire classical fencing set were still practising a highly reified form of fighting often far, far, removed from anything like realistic combat and frowned on competition and so on, all in favour in the "beautiful form".
The work, Dubois' included, is invaluable because they displayed a sense of timing and physicality you can only get from years of training. Dubois in particular had a background in full contact Savate and it really shows in some of his ideas on the engagement. Anyway all this needs to mitigate any conclusions we make.
Anyway, great find and I thank you for reminding me of this stuff. I agree, its all very interesting.
It was...an interesting period in the modern sport overall, however its worth pointing out that the entire classical fencing set were still practising a highly reified form of fighting often far, far, removed from anything like realistic combat and frowned on competition and so on, all in favour in the "beautiful form".
The work, Dubois' included, is invaluable because they displayed a sense of timing and physicality you can only get from years of training. Dubois in particular had a background in full contact Savate and it really shows in some of his ideas on the engagement. Anyway all this needs to mitigate any conclusions we make.
Anyway, great find and I thank you for reminding me of this stuff. I agree, its all very interesting.
Jass
