- 3/4/08 -

This is now the 4th version of the Ars Gladii website. Some new additions include access into the Fechtbuch section, our online interpretation guide. Members can access the online Library section.

- 12/15/08 -

Classes and instruction has wrapped up for the year with the onset of winter. Classes will resume in the spring once the temperatures warm up a bit, most likely March. I have some related projects in the works for over the winter. Check back here for more information.

- 3/09/08 -

Wow, it's been a while since I've updated this section. Anyways, Ars Gladii is still in existence and still offering instruction. We are currently awaiting (un)patiently the arrival of spring here in Michigan. Once the snow clears and the frigid chill leaves that air (at least partially), we will start up classes again. If you'd like to be included in our mailing list, just email us as info@arsgladii.com and we will let you know the latest news about classes.

I will be teaching at a couple events in June - the annual Cumann Bhata/Recreational Violence Weekend in Kinsman Ohio and a 2-day class at Gallowglass Academy. Below are the specifics on the class at Gallowglass. More information on the Cumann Bhata weekend event will be posted as soon as they are available.

Safe in the Assault: A Defensive look at Liechtenauer's Art with Josh Little, Ars Gladii

June 21-22, 2008
$100 until May 22; $150 thereafter and at the door
Lunches included
9am - 5pm both days
River Valley Center, 605 S. Main St., Leaf River IL

This two-day seminar will examine the old axiom "hit without being hit," and how Johannes Liechtenauer's art of the Longsword encompasses this ideal. Appropriate for beginning and experienced students alike, this course will work through the fundamentals of Liechtenauer's teachings as presented by "Döbringer," Ringeck, and Von Danzig, with overall emphasis on defensive tactics. We will be examining stance, movement, timing, strikes, thrusts, and deflections – all with the idea of "hitting without being hit."

For this course, students will need a sound 3-weapon fencing mask (or other comparable head protection – no open faces!), a pair of gloves (preferably padded like the Revival Light Sparring gloves), and a Longsword simulator. Simulators should be made of metal (rebated steel or aluminum) instead of wood, as wood distorts some of the actions we will be reviewing. I will have a small number of masks and aluminum swords available for use at this class, but please bring your own or borrow a friend’s, if such is available to you. Men must wear athletic cup.