The Translation

Summary

This translation seeks to present the fullest and clearest possible version of Lecküchner's techniques as documented in the two principal medieval sources. The translation is based on the Munich manuscript (M), with additional material from Heidelberg (H) where this seemed of potential use or interest to readers. As with other Fechtbücher, Lecküchner's language is methodical and straightforward, but it relies on a well developed technical vocabulary for which there is no modern English equivalent. This translation therefore relies on a constructed vocabulary that is documented in the Glossary. Yet even with a strong specialized vocabulary, words cannot entirely capture the complexities of swordplay, and many of Lecküchner's techniques are open to multiple interpretations. The technical content in this translation therefore stays dose to the original text, allowing readers to make their own decisions about interpretation.

For convenience of reference and navigation, verse line numbers, sequence numbers and other cross references have been added in the left margin; the translation also inserts italicized subject headings at the right margin. Otherwise, all material not actually in M is flagged by square or angled brackets: square brackets are used for alterations to the text, angled brackets for editorial apparatus and commentary.

Simple editorial additions are inserted in square brackets without footnotes. Footnotes document editorial revisions to the content of M, as well as variant readings from H, where these might prove of interest. In the footnotes, editorial comments are given in italics. Where H includes substantial material not found in M, this has been inserted into the main text at an appropriate location, again set off by square brackets. Significant variants in H are systematically footnoted, but only a few representative samples from the Speyer Fechtbuch (S) have been documented—just enough to sketch out this third, intermediate redaction and its relationship to H and M.

In a few cases illustrations and/or text have been moved from their actual position in the manuscript, in accordance with the author's explicit or implicit intent; such changes are flagged in angled brackets.

Page numbers are given in angled brackets, based on the folio numbers found on each leaf of the manuscript: r (recto) indicates the front of the leaf, v (verso) indicates the back.