How is classical fencing different from modern fencing?
Classical fencing is a martial art and is taught with constant reference to the realities of an encounter with sharp blades. Because the techniques of classical fencing evolved from the traditions of the dueling ground, the focus of the training is to enable the fencer to survive in an actual combative situation on the terrain. These techniques were and have been utilized in armed encounters of this type well into the 20th century. Modern fencing, on the other hand, is a sport and is taught as such. Modern fencing is not a martial art. Rather, the techniques of modern fencing have evolved solely to enable the fencer to win at a game and sport that has completely divorced itself from the harsh reality of an encounter with sharps. The focus of the training is, rather, to enable an athlete to win at a game. The complexity of the rules of modern fencing have rendered it a game, where to be successful in competition, one must adapt and play to the rules and the officials in charge, as well
