Where to start with studying Manuscripts?

[coryzamparelli]

So, I have been at this for a little bit of time now, dedicating a lot of time at the Pel outside and doing research. I am trying to teach myself The Italian School of Combat because, with my circumstances, I cannot study with others or study under a more knowledgeable Scholar on that particular school. So I finally decided it's time, now that I have established a basic understanding of the art (I mean a VERY basic understanding), to actually study the original manuscripts and treatises that have all the knowledge I could possibly wish to obtain. Now as of right now I am trying to study "Flos Duellatorum" by the Italian master Fiore dei Liberi. So I went to Wiktenauer and downloaded the Manuscript PDF but now it leaves me asking one question: How do I start?

Do I just start reading and trying to interpret the pictures, or do I actually try to translate the words to English? I am not sure so any advice from those here who have much experience would be very appreciated!!!

[John Farthing]

The paper entitled 'Fiore Dei Liberi: 15th Century Master of Defence' by John Clements contained in the book 'Masters of Medieval and Renaissance Martial Arts' makes an excellent study guide for beginning to understand Fiore.

You might also enjoy the piece on Giacomo Di Grassi, another Italian 'Maestro' in the same book.

More information on the book itself can be found here: http://thearma.org/member-books/MOMRMA.html

I hope that helps!

[Andrew F Ulrich]

Other than getting real training in person, the best thing a beginner can do, in my opinion, is become an ARMA member. There is a ton of instructional videos, articles, podcasts, study guides, and other stuff in the member's section of the site, and lots of supportive members on the member's mailing list who would be glad to help long distance.

Also see the Longsword Lesson 1 video that was just released to the public.

[coryzamparelli]

@John: I saw that book in a local book store recently but unfortunately I didn't have the money to buy it, even though it was on sale :/

@Andrew: I wish there was someone who also took up Historical Fencing around my area but unfortunately I am the only person in South Florida. I could, and intend on, joining of of the few fencing schools near me, but they are only teaching the German School of Combat. That isn't bad considering how German and Italian a pretty similar and borrow many techniques from each other, but I am focusing on the Italian School of Combat. Now I know this sounds silly but I've invested so much time into studying the Italian School that I would hate to drop it all and start fresh German. Plus, I am mainly interested in the Italian masters and what they taught, and there are no schools around here that teach that style of fencing.

As for joining ARMA, I would like to but I have no income right now and cannot afford it so until I can get a job, I will not be able to join But I have a good feeling that things will turn around so that I may be able to join up.