The spear, sometimes known as the “king of weapons”, is often considered the most influential weapon in human history. From the earliest conflicts up until the invention of the socket bayonet in the 18th century the spear and its immediate descendents comprised the vast majority of weapons found on battlefields the world over.
Over the course of 7 weeks we will be covering; the fundamentals of the use of the spear, the spear and shield and the pike both by itself. The course will be primarily referencing Achille Marozzo’s Opera Nova treatise first printed in 1536, in Northern Italy, part of the Bolognese school of fencing. Elements of other traditions will also be touched on across the course.
As the basics of these weapons can be taught relatively quickly there should be a good amount of sparring opportunity available toward the end of most classes.
Preliminary course plan:
Week 1 – Single spear: Fundamentals, attacks and defences
Week 2 – Single spear: Making attacks and controlling the fight
Week 3 – Single Spear: The close fight
Week 4 – Single Single Spear and Pike: Revision and pike awareness.
Week 5 – Spear and Shield: Fundamentals, attacks and defences
Week 6 – Spear and Shield: making opportunities and controlling the fight
Week 7 – Spear and Shield: Revision
Each class will be proceeded with a quick warm up and revision of relevant material covered in previous classes.
Costs:
$100 for the whole course, or
Included in the standard SHF class subscriptions.
Schedule
Friday 5 May 7 PM – Preston
Friday 12 May 7 PM – Preston
Friday 19 May 7 PM – Preston
Friday 26 May 7 PM – Preston
Friday 2 June 7 PM – Preston
Friday 9 June 7 PM – Preston
Friday 16 June 7 PM – Preston