This class will take an in-depth look at Bolognese sword-and-buckler material with a particular emphasis on the earliest-extant treatise in that tradition, Antonio Manciolino (1531). I emphasize a holistic approach to this system, with a good balance between theory and practice; most importantly, we will look at both the wide and the often-overlooked narrow play.

 

In this class, you will learn many things. Theoretically, we will look at the tradition we call "Bolognese" and understand what constitutes its main tenets, who taught it, who used it (including some famous condottieri), what weapons were used in it and what else we know about it. We will also look at the main components of swordplay in this style, their similarities and differences--the main ones being spada da gioco, spada da filo, gioco largo and stretto.

 

Practically, you will learn about the main defensive and offensive elements of the style, plus many stylistic and mental-discipline elements that the Masters talk about. In particular:

 

Day One--The Fundamentals:

• Stance, footwork and its impact on measure
• The lines
• The main guards
• The attacks
• The mental game, the style and the Bolognese "attitude"
• Introduction to the four main modes of defense
• Student-created actions

Day Two--Wide Play and Its Parts:

• In-depth look into the four main modes of defense, including the correct use of the buckler
• Entry into the play and embellishments
• Provocations
• Parries and ripostes
• Exit from the play
• Student-created actions

Day Three--Narrow Play and Its Parts:
 

• The strette of the half sword (narrow play)
• Definitions and types of strette or narrow play
• How to enter the strette and how to exit safely
• Sword-actions and wrestling actions
• Student-created actions

The class will encourage you to understand and use the style practically. While placing a particular emphasis on authenticity, we will ensure that what you learn will make you a better swordsman in whatever style you practice.
 
Equipment required:
 

• Sword: a blunted practice sword with a ground-to-navel maximum blade length will be optimal. I strongly recommend a hilt that protects the hand and that enables fingering of the ricasso. I also strongly encourage students to choose a lighter sword (2.5lbs max), since the quick actions of this style are much harder to perform with a heavier weapon.
• Buckler: a small buckler with a diameter of 10 inches approximately is an ideal simulator for the brocchiero piccolo. A targa or a slightly larger buckler is also acceptable.
• Protective equipment: fencing mask or helmet, gloves. Most actions (cuts and thrusts) are aimed at the head, so the mask is the most important piece of protective equipment. Other protective equipment is up to the discretion of the attendee and the rules of the venue.

Prerequisites:
 
None. You are, however, encouraged to download and read my Introduction to Bolognese PDF found at the Order of the Seven Hearts' page. This will make you familiar with many of the concepts and positions, although this class will take you to much greater depths.