New Discourse on the Art of Fencing

Joachim Köppe’s Newer Discurs der Rittermeßigen und Weitberümbten Kunst des Fechtens, first published in Magdeburg in 1619 presents exactly what the title suggests – a fresh discourse on fencing. Its author was not a fencing master, but a doctor attached to the University in Magdeburg, who had already written and published several works when he decided to write and publish a book about his great passion, fencing. His professional background is reflected in his Newer Discurs, making it not only an interesting, thoughtful text on fencing, but also a journey through the mind of a 17th century academic who is writing about his favourite subject. His Discourse is richly illustrated with many anecdotes, varying from his personal experiences meeting Salvator Fabris in Paris, to Athenians being strangled by the Minotaur in the Labyrinth.