Combat & The SCA

Honor. Truth. Kindness. These are just a few things that come to mind when you think of Chivalry. But that doesn't define it or explain what place it has in the SCA
"Throughout history men have searched for a way to define and quantify admirable behavior. The code of chivalry is, at its heart, simply a handbook for good conduct. But chivalry was not a mandate from the powerful to the downtrodden, nor a directive from the chosen unto the masses. It was a set of limitations which the strong and the mighty placed upon themselves with the realization that setting a good example sends a message which is far more powerful than any words on paper." Scott farrell 2002

I know what you are probably thinking. Ash, what does this have to do with combat? Well at its heart, everything. Chivalry in the context of the SCA is all of those things and more. To sum up in a single word... Courtesy. Courtesy towards our fellow men and women. Courtesy to our greater's and our lesser's. In combat it means courtesy to your enemy. the romantic idea that even though you had to meet to fight to the death that doesn't mean you don't have to be civilized.

Allowing your opponent to pick up his weapon when he has dropped it. never hitting your foe while his back is to you. these are a few examples of that creed.

In our context, chivalry represents our ideals so much that we've made one of our highest awards dedicated to this ideal. the order of chivalry celebrates that good example and the people who set it. Divided into two categories, knighthood and master at arms, the chivalry encompasses all aspects of SCA life including the battlefield.

It is in this light that we wish you to read these pages. Combat is a great thing but please remember your courtesy, your Chivalry. From "Ash" (William J Ashley)

For fighting info or questions contact THL Caedmon of Jorvik .

 

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