Did Medieval Knights Use Mysticism in Their Swordsmanship?
The question of whether medieval knights relied on mysticism, mysticism, astrology, intuition, or spirituality to enhance their swordsmanship has perplexed scholars and enthusiasts alike. It's an intriguing blend of history, religion, and combat techniques that provides a rich tapestry of insights into the lives of knights during the Middle Ages. While mysticism played a role in many aspects of medieval life, its influence on swordsmanship was often more metaphorical and esoteric than literal.
Mysticism in Everyday Life
Firstly, it's important to address a key assumption: medieval people, and humans in general, widely believed in and relied on mysticism and related concepts to understand and navigate the world. Whether it's the belief in the supernatural, astrological alignments, or mystical practices, these beliefs permeated almost every aspect of life. Therefore, it would be misleading to assume that mysticism played a negligible role in knightly practices.
Mysticism and Medieval Swordsmanship
There is indeed a link between mysticism and medieval swordsmanship, but it was more philosophical and conceptual than physical. A notable example is the Le Jue de la Hache, a treatise on the pollaxe technique, which explicitly ties martial arts to religious practice. Its anonymous author stated that all beings strive to avoid death and that this is why we arm ourselves. This indicates an intersection of martial arts with broader religious and existential concerns.
Key Example: Johannes Liechtenauer
The writings of Johannes Liechtenauer exemplify the mystical and oriented approach to martial arts in the late medieval period. Liechtenauer, a High Master of the Kunst des Fechtens (Art of Fencing), encoded his teachings in a cryptic poem that was meant to be comprehensible only to those initiated into the secret society.
Interpreting Mysticism in Liechtenauer's Writings
However, it's crucial to understand that applying mystical interpretations to Liechtenauer's fencing principles can be highly misleading. Consider the following excerpt from his poem, translated by Cory Winslow:
Two hangings come
From one hand from the earth
Interpreting this passage as indicating an earth-based, dry and cold (and therefore passive and focused) guard is an oversimplification. While elements of alchemical analysis might have some validity, the primary thought process behind these methods is fundamentally erroneous. Fencing principles should not be derived from vague connections to elemental or astrological signs.
Mystical vs. Practical Fencing
The disciples of Liechtenauer practiced what could be termed as "mystical" fencing, but not in a way that would be recognizable as strict magic. Instead, they believed in a High Master, whose words were to be interpreted and applied in a meaningful, yet practical manner. This approach was similar to religious practices, where texts are examined deeply to derive personal and communal meanings.
“Slice off the hard ones
From below in both drivings”
This passage from Liechtenauer's poem can be interpreted in two different ways, both of which are valid and effective fencing techniques. The key point is that the true value lies in the interpretation and application of these techniques within the context of the group's teachings.
The Mystical and the Mundane
It's fascinating to note that even the mundane aspects of life in the Middle Ages were imbued with a mystical quality. This duality is evident in the way knights approached combat. While the practical application of fencing techniques was essential, the underlying philosophy often had a mystical bent, reflecting the broader worldview of the time. This mystical dimension is not confined to knights; it extends to the way society as a whole approached various aspects of life.
In conclusion, while knights of the Middle Ages certainly utilized mysticism in their lives, its application to swordsmanship was more metaphorical and philosophical than literal. This approach reflects a unique blend of the mystical and the pragmatic, encapsulating the essence of medieval knighthood.