Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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63 of 64 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An excellent introduction and history, 2 Aug 2004
An excellent introduction, for beginners in martial arts and practioners of other forms. Mr. Brown often compares English martial arts to other forms, and rightly so, but critises neither oriental or european for 'poor technique' or other unsubstantiated criticisms. In fact by his use of sources, which are varied, and unlike some books in the genre of european martial arts, have the sources shown on the page, he makes the book far more useful, as it encourages the reader to find out more. It also argues, via these sources, the claim that English martial arts were every bit as well taught and disiplined as their oriental counter-parts, and to my mind, proves it very well. On a slight tangent, i hope some director in Hollywood or some film industry gets hold of this book and finally portrays the Brits and Europeans as sophisticated talented fighters rather than thugs who use brute force and no skill on the battlefield.
The pictures and description of techniques are helped by the glossary of terms, which along with the pictures are very well done. The descriptions are clear and easy to follow. Of course its nothing on actual tuition, however, it provides a well thought out, clear and excellently written starting point from which people can start to discover english martial arts.
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55 of 56 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
English Martial Arts, 23 May 2003
Wow! This is a book that will go a long way to help the current revival of Western Martial Arts. Essentially it's halved into history and technique -Part 1: Terry has painstakingly researched a fascinating history of circa 15th Century English martial arts. With beautiful anecdotes and Old English documents quoted, an unbeknown history is exposed to reveal martial arts schools backed by royal support, public gradings and some very brutal competitions. There are female fighters, blind masters and Devonians winning freedom from the Spanish. Part 2: A little background on the weapons and 'The Principles of True Fighting,' lead us into the 100+ pages of technique photographs. Incorporated here are: Broadsword, Quarterstaff, Sword & Dagger, Sword & Buckler Shield, Bill (like a pike) and Bare-Fists.
My only criticism is that besides the Stances, there isn't a lot of work for the solo practitioner. But this is amply made up for by fact that if you contact the author via the Company of Maisters website, he will put you in touch with your nearest practising group. If you're interested in the history, it's a great read. If you want to get involved in martial arts indigenous to the West, it's indispensable. The author has 34 years in "Beggar's Art" Kung Fu & a 2nd Dan in Karate, not to mention his Anciant Maister position in the Company of Maisters.
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12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent Depiction of Western Martial Arts, 7 Feb 2000
By A Customer
If you are interested in history or martial arts then you must have this book. It is split into two sections the first setting the various weapons into an historical context, the second depicting actual techniques that are simple and easy to follow. I am not saying that this book would make you an over night martial artist but it would definately start you on the road. The historical section is well researched and gives a wonderful insight to the realities of martial arts in ENglish History.Weapons covered are - the Broadsword, Quarterstaff, Sword and Buckler, Sword and Dagger, Bill and unarmed. You can clearly see Terry Brown's experience of martial arts shine throughout this whole book.
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