Why is fencing associated with nobility and the upper classes?
Fencing, as practiced today for sport, was developed from the tradition of dueling. Certainly, anyone could fence, but nobles and wealthy people were likely to duel over matters of honor much the same way we might sue someone for slander today. To become good at fencing it was necessary to take lessons, and fencing masters were expensive to hire. With plenty of fighting and dueling happening the demand for a master’s services was high and so were his prices. Nobility was more likely to have fencing master on staff. Ironically, time as changed fencing to become one of the most accessible of sports. It is open to men, women and children of all ages. Furthermore, the cost of fencing is relatively small compared to many other sports. What began with royalty is now a most democratic pastime.
