Hoplology is a science that studies human combative behavior and performance. It deals with the methods, behavior, and technology used in human combat, particularly weapons and armor. The word hoplology is derived from the Greek terms hoplos (a mythical armor plated beast) and hoplite, the term for the classical Greek warrior. (Wikipedia)
Check out this clip of these guys demonstrating basic techniques from Lichtenauer's Kunst des Fechtens with the longsword (website). In short, they are beeping impressive. As you watch this, keep in mind the hours of training it takes to get to this level of control. They make me want to go full-out Braveheart-like and charge onto the battlefield hacking off body parts one bad guy after another. Today's gonna be a good day. :)
For those of you who don't know, (I didn't until I looked it up) Johannes Liechtenauer was a 14th-century German fencing master (Source). His method had a profound influence on German fencing in the 15th and 16th centuries and the majority of the fencing guides that came out during that era were focused on his teachings. But what's even more interesting, is that no one has ever found a direct record of this man's life or teachings. All that is currently known about his existence comes from the writings of other masters and scholars.
Other Happy H_ologies:
Hamartiology: (Greek: hamartia, "missing the mark," "sin") is the branch
of theology which studies sin.
Hedonology: The
study of pleasure, the branch of ethics dealing with pleasure. From Greek
hedon, meaning pleasure.
Hagiology:
dealing with venerated persons, the lives of saints or writings.
