Unveiling the Ancient English Art of Self Defence: The London Library's Hidden Gem

The Noble Heritage of Self Defence in English Society

When one thinks of English culture, images of afternoon tea, Shakespearean plays, and royalty often come to mind. However, there is a hidden gem of English society that showcases a noble art that dates back centuries: the art of self defence. And where better to discover this tradition than in the hallowed halls of The London Library?

A Journey through the London Library

Founded in 1841, The London Library is one of the largest independent lending libraries in the world, housing more than one million books across its historic shelves. While predominantly known for its extraordinary collection of literary works, the library holds a secret treasure trove of knowledge on the art of self defence.

The Noble English Art of Self-Defence (The London Library Book 9)

by Gene Stratton-Porter (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2632 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	97 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Within the dimly lit corridors of The London Library's basement lies a section dedicated to this noble art form. Stacked from floor to ceiling are rare manuscripts, vintage instructional guides, and forgotten relics that offer a glimpse into the English tradition of self defence.

The Illustrious History of English Self Defence

Throughout history, the art of self defence has played a crucial role in English society. From protecting oneself in the chaotic streets of medieval London to honing one's skills in the sophisticated fencing schools of the Renaissance, self defence has always been highly esteemed in England.

During the Middle Ages, the streets of London were often perilous, necessitating the need for individuals to learn how to defend themselves against thieves and thugs. It was during this time that the first traces of English self defence techniques began to emerge.

As society evolved, self defence transformed into a well-regarded sport and a skill that gentlemen and ladies alike cultivated. The English nobility would train in elaborate fencing schools, competing in duels to showcase their prowess, while the genteel ladies would master the art of defense using parasol and fan.

A visit to The London Library's Self Defence Section

Stepping into The London Library's self defence section is like stepping back in time. The shelves are lined with rare books and manuscripts, some dating back centuries, containing unique insights into the techniques and philosophies of English self defence from long ago.

One such gem is a book titled "The Art of Pugilism: A Gentleman's Guide to Bare-Knuckle Boxing." Published in the 18th century, this manual provides meticulous instructions on proper technique and the rules of the sport, offering a fascinating glimpse into an era when bare-knuckle boxing was a gentleman's pastime.

Among the shelves, you'll also find manuals on techniques for sword fighting, cane defence, and even the intriguing "jacket wrestling," a form of martial art specific to English culture.

Self Defence for the Modern Age

While the art of self defence has evolved considerably since its early beginnings, its importance has not diminished. In today's world, where personal safety remains a top concern, the lessons learned from English self defence practices are more relevant than ever.

Fortunately, The London Library's self defence section not only provides a window into the past but also offers valuable resources for modern enthusiasts. Alongside the vintage manuscripts, you'll find an array of contemporary books and guides on various self defence disciplines, ranging from Krav Maga to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Visitors to The London Library can immerse themselves in this rich heritage, learn from the wisdom of the past, and equip themselves with modern self defence techniques to navigate the challenges of the present.

In

The London Library's self defence section is a testament to the noble heritage of English society. Through its rare books, manuscripts, and forgotten relics, it provides a unique opportunity to explore the art of self defence as it has evolved and thrived in England throughout the ages.

The library invites all enthusiasts, history buffs, and those curious about self defence to delve into this hidden world and embrace the wisdom of their ancestors. So, whether you're seeking knowledge, inspiration, or simply a fascinating journey through time, The London Library's self defence section is waiting to be discovered.

The Noble English Art of Self-Defence (The London Library Book 9)

by Gene Stratton-Porter (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2632 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	97 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A book of boxing by one of the nineteenth-century stars, celebrating the 175th anniversary of The London Library.

Ned Donnelly, a former prize fighter turned boxing instructor and author (with a lot of help from his literate friends), was a household name as a one of the most successful, famous, and respected instructors in the history of British boxing. This delightful book - more than an instruction manual, more than an amusing pastime - captures the fighting style from a crucial moment in boxing history right after the Prize Ring had become extinct. With a detailed clarity of expression, and accompanied by charming illustrations of a slightly paunchy boxer, it is a fascinating insight to the man who trained George Bernard Shaw.

The books in "Found on the Shelves" have been chosen to give a fascinating insight into the treasures that can be found while browsing in The London Library. Now celebrating its 175th anniversary, with over seventeen miles of shelving and more than a million books, The London Library has become an unrivalled archive of the modes, manners and thoughts of each generation which has helped to form it.

From essays on dieting in the 1860s to instructions for gentlewomen on trout-fishing, from advice on the ill health caused by the "modern" craze of bicycling to travelogues from Norway, they are as readable and relevant today as they were more than a century ago.