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I watched a very interesting documentary last night, RECLAIMING THE SWORD. It gives a very interesting overview of the history of sword-making and sword fighting, broken into 3 general categories: modern sport, recreation, and historical/classical fencing. While it does offer a glancing shot at Asian swordsmanship, it's main focus is on Western martial arts, particularly of the 15th+ centuries.
Since the basis for most fantasy role play is European-based weaponry, I found it to be a very good primer into how swords can be dealt with within a fantasy campaign setting, especially relating to the differences between "blacksmith" and "swordsmith".
It really helps set the difference, in my mind at least, between a 'common' forged weapon and a great example of what we would call 'master crafted'.
Very highly recommended.
I watched a very interesting documentary last night, RECLAIMING THE SWORD. It gives a very interesting overview of the history of sword-making and sword fighting, broken into 3 general categories: modern sport, recreation, and historical/classical fencing. While it does offer a glancing shot at Asian swordsmanship, it's main focus is on Western martial arts, particularly of the 15th+ centuries.
Since the basis for most fantasy role play is European-based weaponry, I found it to be a very good primer into how swords can be dealt with within a fantasy campaign setting, especially relating to the differences between "blacksmith" and "swordsmith".
It really helps set the difference, in my mind at least, between a 'common' forged weapon and a great example of what we would call 'master crafted'.
Very highly recommended.
Nifty! Thanks!