Nicoletto Giganti's The School of the Sword: A New Translation by Aaron Taylor M

by Nicoletto Giganti, Yvonne Rogers (Illustrator), Aaron Taylor Miedema (Translator)

Rapier fencing and duelling during the 16th and 17th centuries was dominated by the Italian masters, whose systems of sword fighting became increasingly sophisticated. Breaking away from this trend, Nicoletto Giganti developed something different: a frugal system of fencing that cut to the core of what a swordfight was and how to win it. Giganti's Scola overo Teatro, or The School of the Sword, became one of the most influential systems of fencing across Europe in the seventeenth century. In this remarkable new translation by historical fencing instructor and historian Aaron Taylor Miedema, author of Bayonets and Blobsticks, Giganti's work is presented fresh to the modern reader. Copiously illustrated with redrawings of dozens of Giganti's original plates, over 60 new photographs, and even a new plate, Giganti's detailed curriculum is augmented by comprehensive annotation and commentary. Regardless of whether you are a historian, a casual reader with an interest in the sword, or an accomplished swordsman, Nicoletto Giganti's The School of the Sword is a fascinating guide to the art of rapier fencing.

172 pages, Paperback

First published April 30, 2014

Reviews

[Alec M]

An extremely useful translation for Italian rapier students. I would recommend reading through the Vienna Anonymous first to really understand counter guard theory in fencing of this time so that this translation can really make the most sense though.

[Christopher]

I enjoyed this translation much more than the Leoni translation. While some of the translated text read poorly, it was especially helpful to have the "this is what Giganti means" material at the end of each chapter.

[Mark]

An excellent translation of the Italian master's work.

[Scott Jones]

A good translation, with modern English explanations afterwards. Very well laid out and the plates (pictures) are done well.