[Artemisia] Fencing pedagogy.... was Actual learning ... was 4 Dons

[Jason Mohler]

On Tue, 12 Feb 2008 08:16:34 -0800 (PST)
  Marten van Rosenveldt <kendofencer at yahoo.com> wrote:
> So my question to my fellow fencers is: what is the proper (or at least 
>your) pedagogical approach to teaching fencing, SCA style?  Start with the 
>parry riposte (dui tempi was known in the 1400-1600) or go right to more 
>modern stuff?  My thought is that the equipment dictates the technique.  If 
>you are using a period rapier simulator then the weapon has so much inertia 
>that the parry riposte become more difficult.  If you are using lighter 
>blades (and I include schlager/small swords amongst these) then the dui tempi 
>game becomes more possible.
> 
> Both should be taught.  Not sure of the order though.  And always, footwork, 
>footwork, footwork.
> 

I start out with the basic Zorro school of fencing (take the pointy end and 
stick it in 'em) and build from there.  Once I can get them past any aversion 
to poking at people, I try to teach several aspects at the same time - 
footwork, accuracy (in both targeting and strength), parries, parry as you 
attack, and parry after you attack.  Once they get the basics, I stop going 
off of a standard lesson plan and start focusing on whatever areas need the 
most work.

Matheus