The Art of Fencing; Or, The Use of the Small Sword

This compact manual opens the world of eighteenth‑century small‑sword combat, offering a step‑by‑step walk through the fundamentals of a discipline once essential to the gentleman’s education. The translator preserves the original French master’s precise language while adding clear explanations that guide a listener from choosing a blade to mastering the basic guards and thrusts.

Beyond the basics, the work delves into the subtleties of footwork, timing, and the unique challenges faced by left‑handed fencers, all framed by a philosophy that prizes reason over flourish. Its many numbered chapters read like a living laboratory, inviting the audience to picture drills, practice parries, and understand the logic behind each movement. Whether you are a historical martial‑arts enthusiast or simply curious about the art of fencing, the treatise offers a rare glimpse into the theory and practice that shaped the dueling culture of its era.