RPR Archive Tips/Advice Articles: Lightsaber Dueling

Robal_Krahl menioned fencing texts; I'd like to mention mediaeval texts on fighting.

Lightsabres can be used one-handed or two handed, with a combination of both being used in most fights in the films; they are equivalent to the hand-and-a-half sword of the high middle ages. Luckily for us, there are a number of surviving manuscripts on their use, and a quick read through of a few provides some interesting ideas, as well as a more detailed understanding of the mechanics of combat. Try a look at some of the following:

• Codex 44 A 8 a.k.a. Manuscript 1449


• the Codex Wallerstein


• Talhoffer

If you're not sure how something's meant to work, take a stick or a broom handle, go out into your back garden, and play around. Better yet, get a friend to come with you, to represent your opponent. Ignore strange looks from the neighbours. You will quickly find out what works, what doesn't, and what's just plain silly. Also how one move flows into the other, and how the footwork fits into it. Seriously - don't knock it 'till you've tried it!