English Swordsmanship is a comprehensive analysis of an historical system of swordsmanship from the end of the 16^th century.

In the late 16^th century the English Gentleman, George Silver was afraid that the traditional English system of swordsmanship would be replaced by Italian rapier fencing. Accordingly he wrote two books, the first, Paradoxes of Defence, arguing that the English system was superior, and the second, Brief Instructions Upon My Paradoxes of Defence, outlining the principles of English swordsmanship. Because he was afraid that the principles of “The True Fight” would be lost, Silver’s books are unparallelled in their detailed explanation of Early Modern combat theory.

Silver's preferred weapon was the basket hilted sword. His system was medieval in character, but altered to better suit the more modern weapon, with its excellent hand protection. The system was explained with the single sword. Additional weapons, such as the left hand dagger and the buckler (a small shield) were then added, and used according to the principles already learned with sword alone.

Silver's system is contemporary with the plays of William Shakespeare and is the style of swordsmanship described as being used by historical characters and by serving men (who preferred the traditional weapons and system over the upper class rapier). Many of Shakespeare’s references to swordsmanship can be traced to incidents in the ongoing quarrels (sometimes fatal) between traditional English Masters of Defence and the teachers of Italian rapier fencing. Our best documentation of these quarrels is from Silver’s Paradoxes of Defence. 

Author Stephen Hand has been studying Silver’s works for 15 years and is recognised around the world as the leading authority on them. In the past three years alone Stephen has taught in six different countries at over 30 major events and continues to be booked to teach on the works of George Silver.

With nearly a thousand photographs, detailed descriptions of each principle and action and dozens of suggested drills and exercises, English Swordsmanship is an unparalleled reference for anyone looking to recreate Elizabethan Swordplay, whether it be for re-enactment, for stage, or as a martial art in its own right.

Volume I of English Swordsmanship covers the use of the single sword, including footwork, principles, attacks, defences, grappling and advanced tactics. It also contains a section on how to use the system with the left hand, or against a left handed opponent. Volume II will cover the use of the sword alongside the dagger and the buckler, as well as Silver’s pragmatic, but controversial instructions on how a swordsman is to defeat an opponent armed with a rapier.