Fencing During The Renaissance

Fencing during the Renaissance

During the beginning of the Renaissance the sword was an offensive weapon used for cracking armor, and the shield was used as a defense. Soon gunpowder came into general use, and the sword became a defensive as well as an offensive weapon. In the 16th century the rapier was introduced in Italy and the art of fencing was organized in fencing schools. A dagger in the other hand, and later a folded cloak, replaced the shield. Eventually the non sword arm was left free and held away from the sword are to minimize the target area.

The Italian fencing technique and the use of the rapier spread throughout Europe. The size and shape of the rapier were constantly changed because its length and weight made it clumsy to carry. During the 18th century the small sword or epee, was invented and became popular in France; the new weapon resulted in distinct Italian and French styles of fencing. The Italians used the rapier in a skillful manner while the French used the epee in a more formal manner. The French style of fencing became the most popular.

In the 19th century dueling was generally outlawed, and the fencing schools turned to teaching fencing for purposes of sport. Most of the equipment that is still used by fencers was developed at this time, including the glove worm on the sword hand, the chest protector, and the mask of wire netting.