The Academy of European Swordsmanship • History & Information

Give not over practise nor receive not skill because thou canst not be a master of art, or a doctor at the first day, for time must worke and bring all things to pass, for that is well done which is done by leisure, for haste many times makes waste." - Joseph Swetnam, 1617

AES Mission•

Our mission is to further the academic and physical study of western swordsmanship. Based in Canada, AES pursues the academic and physical study of European swordsmanship. We are all students of the martial arts, and strive to further our knowledge and the dissemination of knowledge regarding the rich heritage of western martial arts. The Academy of European Swordsmanship strives to offer a legitimate martial experience to all those who express an interest in the European martial arts. We emphasize the use of historical sources, accurate replica weapons, and effective, realistic practise without fantasy, choreography or sporting concerns. We work out drills and exercises based upon study and experience in order to further our skills and the knowledge base available to all practitioners of the European Martial Arts. We utilise contact sparring , drilling with wooden practise swords, training with replica weapons, grappling & closing techniques, research, scholarship, unarmoured & armoured combat, and test cutting with sharp swords.

NEW: Interview with Johanus Haidner, AES Founder and Director by Jonathan Stucci

AES Philosophy of Study •

There are noticeably different approaches to European swordsmanship today. The most common of these is modern sport-fencing, which has become such a popular sport that it is now an Olympic event. However, rather than approaching it as a sport, we study the martial aspects, and the brutal reality, of combat. This is approached through hands-on practise using techniques studied and analysis from mediaeval and renaissance manuals that are available. These include, but are not limited to, Hans Talhoffer's Fechtbuch of 1467, George Silver's Paradoxes of Defence (1599), Giacomo DiGrasi's True Art of Defence (1594), and others. We utilise experimentation based on these techniques in order to further understand the underlying principles and their application in the context of life-threatening combat. We also encourage the exchange of information with other modern martial arts practitioners and schools. Therefor, some of our members are also members of other martial arts groups, both Western and Eastern. True martial combat does not contain rules for the fighters to overcome. Once rules are imposed, it becomes a sport. We approach swordsmanship as a violent means to self defence, not a sport for scoring points or prestige or staged entertainment. This is a killing art extracted from historical manuals and hands-on experience. It is not limited to merely weapons play, but includes all of the hand-to-hand techniques that were used and could apply in a modern context. While we practise realistic fighting, we also realise that our practise "sparring" is not the full reality of the martial art, and can only simulate some aspects of it. Safety is a factor today, so we try to simulate the actual combat through free-play and sparring with padded weapons (we are also working on armoured methods, but this is not as common). Because of these limits, we also have drilling exercises and research discussions and assignments, and we utilise test-cutting for further understanding of weapon function. We work in hand-to-hand combat as well as with all types of European hand weapons. This includes forms of grappling techniques, strikes, joint locks and breaks, throws and so-forth. We practise with a variety of swords including long sword, short swords, falchions, great swords and two-handers, but also including knives, daggers, spears, staves, pole arms, axes, maces, and shield work. Most students also practise later period weapons such as rapier and small-sword.

A note regarding "philosphy" in martial arts. Recently some-one asked me about spirituality and how this integrates into our art. That's a tough question. Many of the historical masters include large sections in their manuals regarding morality, the types of people one should teach, and the expected behaviour of students and masters alike. There is a consistency in all of these: they all believe that one must behave in an honourable fashion: with honesty, control, and good temperment. This means we do not strive to start fights, rather, we avoid them. But it doesn't mean that we are not ready to defend ourselves or others when the situation warrants it. Granted, it is most rare today to ever have to fight, but it is within our thoughts. We obey the law, and hold our school and ourselves in high esteem.

These all mean that we must have a certain degree of mental and spiritual control. Balance really is the key to martial arts, whether it be in the body, the mind, or the soul. It seems that balancing these concepts together makes for a better martial artist, and a happier person, overall.

"He that to wrath and anger is thrall, over his wits hath no power at all." - Joseph Swetnam, 1617

AES History •

The Academy of European Swordsmanship began in 1994 with some university students and alumni who where interested in discovering the reality of mediaeval combat. They wanted to know how Mediaeval and Renaissance fighting was really done, as a martial art, as opposed to a game or re-enactment. Informal practises and meetings ensued, with each bringing some background of history and/or martial training. We started without any knowledge of the early manuscripts and merely experimented based on what we read in sagas, stories and history, and what we could discover through our own experiences. We did several test cutting sessions on armour and other objects (stuffed sacks; green, wet wood; and cardboard). This, of course was very educational, and destroyed a lot of the armour we had. In 1995 we found our first evidence of manuscripts. It was a small article written in a martial magazine that referred to mediaeval German manuscripts on two-handed swordsmanship. This led to a long struggle to actually locate any of these manuals. We couldn't seem to locate any of these through the library system or local book sellers. It wasn't until 1998 that we obtained parts of our first manual. This was thanks to John Clements and his book, Medieval Swordsmanship, which we found first. Through that we located HACA and their resources. For a while we seriously considered becoming a HACA study group, and abandoning the idea of our own group altogether. However, we found that there are things that we want that outside groups can't offer us (but we can still benefit through continued contact and exchange). In 1999 we stopped meeting formally, because we moved to different cities. In 2001 we decided on a new name and began meeting again. Now we are stronger than ever, with formal meetings, members in several cities, and a system of study based on our knowledge and the knowledge of early masters.

Now the AES has expanded it's focus from strictly Mediaeval Swordsmanship to include Western Martial Arts in general. We have members who are interested in arts from the as far back as the Viking Age, where finding documentation is extremely difficult, right up to our current age in self-defense and military combat. As long as the Art is Western in origin, we are willing to examine it, although we still focus on earlier styles, German swordsmanship in particular.

• In 2004 our Edmonton school expaned to include classes on both Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• In 2005 we incorporated as a registered non-profit in Canada. This allows us to apply for grants, and exempts us from income tax.
• In 2006 we began a school in Calgary under the direction of Gerald Singh.
• In 2007 this direction changed to Mark Winkelman.

AES Ranking System •

There are few rankings within the AES system. These are taken partially from Mediaeval and Renaissance systems of martial arts, and have been modified or created to suit our modern society in light of our heritage. All AES members are students, regardless of rank. Associates are admitted to AES without rank, then test and attain named ranks following testing. Only those who have completed certain tasks may be given other ranks or titles. Each rank level must be attained prior to the next being granted. There are two types of ranks to attain, scholastic and martial. Scolastic and Martial ranks separate from each other, excepting the rank of Master. Certain levels require a specific level of commitment and an oath to be sworn along with them. Martial ranks must be re-certified every three years.

The association consisted of, first, the "Scholler," an absolute beginner who has on his probation, and did not yet as rank as a member; the next, the "Free Scholler," the junior grade; then the "Provost," or assistant master; and, lastly, the "Maister." From the "Maisters" was chosen the governing body, known as "The Four Ancient Maisters of the Noble Science of Defense." To become a member of the association, the simple "Scholler" had to pass an examination, which usually took place in one of the schools kept by the "Maisters." This consisted of bouts at certain weapons, in which he had to encounter a given number of young men who had already passed that ordeal. It was known as "Playing his Prize"; it was, in fact, his matriculation, and when successful he was received as a "Free Scholler." - Alfred Hutton, The Sword and The Centuries, p261.

Academic Ranks: are attained purely for one's scholastic and cultural contribution to our knowledge of European Swordsmanship. There is no martial skill required to attain these ranks.

• Scholar

  Is the first level to attain. This demonstrates a commitment to the art and an ability to analyse and interpret materials. Each AES member must complete a translation, essay, or presentation that contributes new ideas, interpretations and insights to the field of Western Martial Arts under the guidance of a free Scholar, Senior Scholar or Docent. The subject may be chosen by the writer. If accepted, written work may become available on the web page to the public (at the discretion of the author), and will be available to AES members (members only area). One need not be able to present prowess in arms to become a scholar.

• Senior Scholar

  Is one who has contributed a significant amount in the scholarly aspects of the martial art, including, but not limited to: at least three articles or translations as per Scholar qualification.

• Free Scholar

  One who has completed significant individual works, without guidance, in addition to Senior Scholar ranking. Such work can include the developing and running of workshops and demonstrations, articles and translations, a book, significant community education work (regarding European Swordsmanship).

• Senior Free Scholar

  The highest level of scholarly rank. Has completed all lower ranks, in addition to significant public works, including published articles and/or books. Guides students and scholars in their work.

Martial Ranks: are attained based on martial skill. There is a scholastic rank required for all but the Initiate ranking in these.

• Initiate

  This is the first attained rank. Each weapon is tested separately. The student must be able to present a display of skill in the weapon chosen. This includes demonstrating an understanding of the weapon itself (make, structure, parts, history) through a brief oral exam. There will be a free-play in each weapon the student wishes to attain ranking in. This allows the instructor(s) to assess student skills.

• Savant

  One who has shown exceptional skill in the weapon as well as understanding of martial application and history of European Swordsmanship. Capable of beginning to teach students the rudiments and able to discover new insights into the martial use of a particular weapon. Must qualify for each weapon. Brief oral exam on weapon form and history. One must do a prize-play in order to complete this rank. Requires completion of Initiate and Scholar ranks.

• Provost

  This is the highest currently held ranking. Demonstrates understanding of the history and relevance of weapon use and form within the overall context of European Martial Arts and able to explain significance of several historical Fechmeisters through an oral exam. May become certified to lead a particular College and teach other students. Must complete teaching certification seminar in order to teach AES methods. Requires completion of Savant and Senior Scholar ranks.

• Master

  Is a rank that has yet to be attained by any members. A Master is one who demonstrates both Scholastic and Martial excellence. Currently we have set the level of attaining Free Scholar rank, and Provost ranking with at least four weapons, which must include one sword style, dagger/knife, Ringen, and one other weapons of the student's choice.

AES Martial Exercises•

A variety of excercises are performed in AES practise using unarmed techniques as well as weapons. Wasters are the primary tools used in weapon excercises, as these are relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. Committed and senior students practise excercises with blunted steel weapons in exactly the same manner as with wasters. The concept behind performing these excercises is to learn control and mastery of form. For some excercises protective equipment, such as gloves and/or fencing masks are required.

AES Free Play & Sparring•

Sparring can be done in a variety of manners. They are all performed for the purpose of learning and exercise, and must utilise safety above all. AES does not spar for competitive reasons. As these are for learning purposes only, any students who lose their tempers or are overly aggressive in the exercise (such as continuing to hit opponents after initial hit is acknowledged, striking with hands or feet with unnecessary force...) will be suspended from sparring exercises pending review by AES directors.

• Non Contact, Slow Sparring

  This is as much exercise as it is sparring, perhaps more exercise. This is done with wooden or aluminium wasters, and must be at limited speed. The object is not to actually touch the opponent, but to work out possibilities with known techniques as slow, free movement drills. It is advised that students wear some form of head gear (mask or helmet) and gloves, but not required by Academy rules.

• Semi-Contact Sparring

  This is done with wasters or padded weapons, but with protective gear on: gear to be worn includes gloves and fore-arm padding, groin protection, and head gear. This is required by academy rules! It is also advisable to have elbow, knee and shin protection. Again the object of this is exercise with known techniques in order to discover their effectiveness, and to learn control. Students are not to contact the opponent, but it is acknowledge that this can happen, as it is done at a quicker speed than the previous drill. Thus the necessity for protective gear. Pole-arms are forbidden in this exercise for safety reasons. [See more on our padded weapons]

• Full Contact Sparring

  This is only done with approved padded weaponsor with aluminium wasters and approved protective gear (including full gambason). Students must wear head gear, joint padding (such elbow and knee pads), hand protection, and groin protection. It is also advisable to wear a padded coat or vest (with some weapons). The point of this exercise is to to use the techniques of swordsmanship in a realistic, but safe manner. All hits count, and there are no off limits areas. If a person is hit in any location (fingers, foot, head...) the combat is over and a new round is begun. As this is a learning exercise and not for competition, any students who repeatedly do not acknowledge hits are suspended from sparring until such a time as their instructor feels they are fit to return. Full contact sparring can also be done in replica armour. This is not recommended with padded weapons (aluminium is recommended, steel may be acceptable, upon approval). Pole arms are allowed. Some feel that certain types of weapons need to hit more than once; this should be agreed upon before the exercise begins. Each hit must be acknowledged, but combat need not stop between each contact (when multiple contact agreed upon). Again, this is an exercise only and not a competition. We are interested in discovering the effectiveness of techniques against a variety of opponents, and are interested in helping one another further our martial skills. NOTE: sparring with aluminium wasters (with proper protective gear) is recommended for all students, as this is what is required for all ranks beyond Initiate.