Historical fencing manuals and books have many different guards and variations of them. Some sources show us less, others give plenty. What is the difference between them and what is the purpose of that many? Well, I will show you, how I see them.
I throw all of the guards into three categories. Categories according to the position of the point of the sword.
Invitation - Provocation - Imminent
Guards of the Invitation: In this group the point of the sword is NOT threatening your opponent. You're not being behind your sword, you hiding it.
The play here is, to offer an opening for your opponent to attack and with that, you set up a trap.
Invitations are always a TRAP for your opponent.
Guards of the Provocation: These positions are always extended and the point of the sword threatens your opponent. You are behind your sword, covering your openings as much as possible and provoking your opponent to deal first with your sword.
The play here is, to press your opponent to do something against your sword, and just before this happens, you leave your position and attack your opponent where it opens itself.
Guards of the Imminent: All of the positions fall into this category which are not exented but the point of the sword is between you and your opponent. You create a constant THREAT and uncertainty to approach. Always ready to shout forward your point of the sword or blade.
The play here is, to combine the previous two groups' plays in general.
Guardiology part 1 ends here.
I recommend that visit my YouTube channel where you can see some examples about the types of Guards. Also, you can learn from me:
[email protected]
learnswordfight.com
Thank you,
Gabor Antali