I have discovered what is perhaps one of the earliest examples of martial wrestling between knights in single-combat. In the late-12th century Germanic tale of an Arthurian knight, "Erec", by Hartmann von Aue, we are told how “much to his advantage” Erec had “during his youth in England…also learned quite thoroughly the art of wrestling, along with other useful skills” (lines 9270-9295).
The account is unique not only for the accurate description of a throw using counter-leverage to work the opponent’s own strength against him, but in the instinctive follow up that occurs. As his opponent, the red knight, his sword having broken, charges Erec and attempts to grapple, Erec instead throws him to the ground then immediately mounts and pummels him into submission in a fashion entirely familiar to many a streetfight and playground tussle:
“Erec then made a show of his strength. As his opponent bent over, Erec thrust his shoulder before the red knight’s chest, so that the man could not get at him. With great might Erec shoved him away and jerked him back again so swiftly that the huge fellow began to fall. Because of his weight he could not regain his balance, but toppled to the ground instead. At this point the noble Erec pounced upon him. Erec, that performer of amazing feats, inflected upon his opponent every bit as much distress as he himself felt delighted. He knelt upon his chest and pelted him so many times that the knight, as he lay there beneath Erec, grew weary of living. He altogether ceased to offer any defense” (lines 9296-9315).
We are also told how in such wrestling, “It is most difficult to obtain a firm grip on a man wearing armor,” which makes perfect sense given the maile byrnies worn during the time the tale was written.
That's all.
JC
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