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{{Infobox writer
+
{{infobox writer
 
| name                = [[name::Martin Syber]]
 
| name                = [[name::Martin Syber]]
 
| image                =  
 
| image                =  
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| deathplace          =  
 
| deathplace          =  
 
| resting_place        =  
 
| resting_place        =  
| occupation          = [[occupation::Fencing master| ]][[Fencing master]]
+
| occupation          = [[Fencing master]]{{#set: occupation=Fencing master }}
 
| language            = [[language::Early New High German]]
 
| language            = [[language::Early New High German]]
 
| nationality          =  
 
| nationality          =  
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| movement            =  
 
| movement            =  
 
| notableworks        = ''New Zettel''
 
| notableworks        = ''New Zettel''
| manuscript(s)        = [[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|MS M.I.29]] (1491)<br/>[[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|MS E.1939.65.341]] (1508)<br/>[[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|MS Varia 82]] (1570)
+
| manuscript(s)        = {{plainlist
 +
| [[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|MS M.I.29]] (1491)
 +
| [[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|MS E.1939.65.341]] (1508)
 +
| [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|MS Varia 82]] (1570)
 +
}}
 
| principal manuscript(s)=
 
| principal manuscript(s)=
| first printed edition= [[Jeffrey Hull|Hull]], 2008
+
| first printed edition=  
 
| wiktenauer compilation by=[[Michael Chidester]]
 
| wiktenauer compilation by=[[Michael Chidester]]
  
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| children            =  
 
| children            =  
 
| relatives            =  
 
| relatives            =  
| influences          =  
+
| influences          = [[Johannes Liechtenauer]] (?)
 
| influenced          =  
 
| influenced          =  
 
| awards              =  
 
| awards              =  
 
| signature            =  
 
| signature            =  
 
| website              =  
 
| website              =  
| translations        = {{plainlist | {{German translation|http://talhoffer.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/martin-syber-in-the-mi-29-transcribed-and-translated/|1}} | {{Hungarian translation|http://kardrendje.hu/downloads/books/Mertin_Siber.pdf}} }}
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| translations        = {{plainlist
 +
| [http://www.thearma.org/Manuals/Mertin_Siber/MS-Web.htm#.VGJ_mDRu6Ag English translation]
 +
| {{German translation|http://talhoffer.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/martin-syber-in-the-mi-29-transcribed-and-translated/|1}}
 +
| {{Greek translation|https://byzantineoplomachia.wordpress.com/2021/02/28/οι-διδασκαλίες-του-martin-syber-από-το-codex-speyer-ms-m-i-29-1491/|1}}
 +
| {{Hungarian translation|http://kardrendje.hu/downloads/books/Mertin_Siber.pdf|1}}
 +
}}
 
| below                =  
 
| below                =  
 
}}
 
}}
'''Martin Syber''' (Mertin Siber, Martein Syber) was a [[century::15th century]] [[nationality::German]] [[fencing master]]. Hardly anything is known of Syber beyond his ''New Zettel'' ("New [[Epitome]]"). His surname signifies that he came from a family of sieve makers, but gives us no indication of his birthplace. According to Syber's own account, he learned the art from a variety of masters from across Europe, including men from Bohemia, Brabant (or possibly Provence), England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Prussia, Russia, and Swabia. The inclusion of his epitome in [[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|Codex Speyer]] and the [[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|Glasgow Fechtbuch]] suggests a connection to the tradition of [[Johannes Liechtenauer]], and his mention of an "earlier epitome" may be a reference to that of Liechtenauer; however, Syber does not appear on the roll of the Society of Liechtenauer recorded by [[Paulus Kal]] in ca. 1470,<ref>[[Paulus Kal|Kal, Paulus]]. Untitled [manuscript]. [[Paulus Kal Fechtbuch (Cgm 1507)|Cgm 1507]]. Munich, Germany: [[Bayerische Staatsbibliothek]], 1470.</ref> so the extent of his relationship is unclear.
+
'''Martin Syber''' (Mertin Siber, Martein Syber) was a [[century::15th century]] [[nationality::German]] [[fencing master]]. Hardly anything is known of Syber beyond his ''New Zettel'' ("New [[Zettel|Recital]]"). His surname signifies that he came from a family of sieve makers, but gives us no indication of his birthplace. According to Syber's own account, he learned the art from a variety of masters from across Europe, including men from Bohemia, Brabant (or possibly Provence), England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Prussia, Russia, and Swabia. The inclusion of his Recital in [[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|Codex Speyer]] and the [[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|Glasgow Fechtbuch]] suggests a connection to the tradition of [[Johannes Liechtenauer]], and his mention of an "earlier ''Zettel''" is likely a reference to that of Liechtenauer; however, Syber does not appear on the roll of the [[Fellowship of Liechtenauer]] recorded by [[Paulus Kal]] in ca. 1470,<ref>The Fellowship of Liechtenauer is recorded in three versions of [[Paulus Kal]]'s treatise: [[Paulus Kal Fechtbuch (MS 1825)|MS 1825]] (1460s), [[Paulus Kal Fechtbuch (Cgm 1507)|Cgm 1507]] (ca. 1470), and [[Paulus Kal Fechtbuch (MS KK5126)|MS KK5126]] (1480s).</ref> so the extent of his relationship is unclear.
  
Syber's epitome comes in the form a cryptic poem, perhaps intended to convey the essence of the art to those who already knew it. Unfortunately, no [[gloss]] is currently known to exist for Syber's verse, so its meaning is difficult to decipher. Conversely, it is worth noting that the 16th century [[Freifechter]] [[Joachim Meÿer]] not only possessed a copy of Syber's verse (which he copied into [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|his final manuscript]]),<ref>[[Joachim Meÿer|Meÿer, Joachim]]. ''Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss'' [manuscript]. [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|MS Varia 82]]. Rostock, Germany: [[Universitätsbibliothek Rostock]], 1570.</ref> but also employed much of the master's unique terminology in his own teachings. Meÿer may thus hold the key to interpreting Syber's techniques.
+
Syber's Recital comes in the form a cryptic poem describing six ''Gänge'', set sequences of strikes and parries. Unfortunately, no [[gloss]] is currently known to exist for Syber's verse, so its meaning is difficult to decipher. Conversely, it is worth noting that the 16th century [[Freifechter]] [[Joachim Meÿer]] not only had access to Syber's verse (which is included in [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|his final manuscript]]),<ref>[[Joachim Meÿer|Meÿer, Joachim]]. ''Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss'' [manuscript]. [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|MS Varia 82]]. Rostock, Germany: [[Universitätsbibliothek Rostock]], 1570.</ref> but also employed much of the master's unique terminology in his own teachings. Meÿer may thus hold the key to interpreting Syber's techniques.
  
The Salzburg version of Syber's text is followed by an [[Anonymous 15th Century Poem|additional page of verse]]. This poem shares some common terminology with Syber's epitome and has been attributed to Syber by some authors in the past,<ref name="Hull">[[Jeffrey Hull|Hull, Jeffrey]]. [http://www.thearma.org/Manuals/Mertin_Siber/MS-Web.htm "Mertin Siber’s Longsword Fight-Lore of 1491 AD: a thesis on the ''Fechtlehre'' from Handschrift M I 29 (''Codex Speyer'') at the University of Salzburg in Austria"]. The [[Association for Renaissance Martial Arts]], 2005. Retrieved 30 November 2010.</ref> but its omission from the other two versions of his text call this attribution into question. In addition, another version of the poem was included in one of [[Hans Talhoffer]]'s manuscripts almost fifty years earlier,<ref>[[Hans Talhoffer|Talhoffer, Hans]]. Untitled [manuscript]. [[Talhoffer Fechtbuch (MS Thott.290.2º)|MS Thott 290.2º]]. Copenhagen, Denmark: [[Det Kongelige Bibliotek]], 1459.</ref> which indicates that if Syber were the author, his career was much earlier than currently believed.
+
The Salzburg version of Syber's text is followed by an [[Anonymous 15th Century Poem|additional page of verse]]. This poem shares some common terminology with Syber's writings and has been attributed to Syber by some authors in the past,<ref name="Hull">[[Jeffrey Hull|Hull, Jeffrey]]. [http://www.thearma.org/Manuals/Mertin_Siber/MS-Web.htm "Mertin Siber’s Longsword Fight-Lore of 1491 AD: a thesis on the ''Fechtlehre'' from Handschrift M I 29 (''Codex Speyer'') at the University of Salzburg in Austria"]. The [[Association for Renaissance Martial Arts]], 2005. Retrieved 23 November 2014.</ref> but its omission from the other two versions of his text call this attribution into question. In addition, another version of the poem was included in one of [[Hans Talhoffer]]'s manuscripts almost fifty years earlier,<ref>[[Hans Talhoffer|Talhoffer, Hans]]. Untitled [manuscript]. [[Talhoffer Fechtbuch (MS Thott.290.2º)|MS Thott 290.2º]]. Copenhagen, Denmark: [[Det Kongelige Bibliotek]], 1459.</ref> which indicates that if Syber were indeed the author, his career must have been much earlier than currently believed.
  
 
== Treatise ==
 
== Treatise ==
  
{{hidden begin
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{{Special:RunQuery/Martin Syber}}
| title    = <span style="font-size:130%;">[[Longsword]]</span>
+
 
| titlestyle= background:#f2f2f2; border:1px solid #aaaaaa; padding:10px; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle; width:60%;
+
<div id="longsword" style="background:transparent; clear:both; font-weight:normal; padding:3px; text-align:left; width:0em; min-width:0em;">
| bodystyle = display:block; width:113em;
+
{| class="master"
}}
 
<section begin="credits"/>
 
{| class="wikitable floated master"
 
 
|-  
 
|-  
! style="width:3em;" |  
+
! id="Trosclair0" | <p>{{translation rating|B}} (2014)<br/>by [[Christian Trosclair]]</p>
! {{translation rating|B}}
+
! id="Kleinau0" | <p>{{translation rating|B|Complete Translation (Salzburg only)}} (2011)<br/>by [[Jens P. Kleinau]]</p>
Open for editing
+
! id="Hull0" | <p>{{translation rating|B|Complete Translation (Salzburg only)}} (2005)<br/>by [[Jeffrey Hull]]</p>
! [[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|Salzburg Version]] (1491)
+
! id="Salzburg0" | <p>[[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|Salzburg Version]] (1491){{edit index|Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)}}<br/>Transcribed by [[Dierk Hagedorn]]</p>
by [[Dierk Hagedorn]]
+
! id="Glasgow0" | <p>[[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|Glasgow Version]] (1508){{edit index|Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)}}<br/>Transcribed by [[Dierk Hagedorn]]</p>
! [[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|Glasgow Version]] (1508)
+
! id="Rostock0" | <p>[[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|Rostock Version]] (1570){{edit index|Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)}}<br/>Transcribed by [[Dierk Hagedorn]]</p>
by [[Dierk Hagedorn]]
 
! [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|Rostock Version]] (1570)
 
by [[Hans Talhoffer (Blogger)|Anonymous]]<section end="credits"/>
 
  
 
|-  
 
|-  
|  
+
| id="Trosclair1" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|1}}
| '''[1] <span style="color:#a40000;">Hereafter is written a New Epitome on the longsword, and an excerpt from the previous epitome and many other good devices from the hands of many masters which have been assembled by Master Martin Syber. And it is divided into six rounds.</span>'''
+
| id="Kleinau1" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|1}}
| '''[1r] <span style="color:#a40000;">Item dy<sup>e</sup> hernach geschriebenn nüwe zettell hat gemacht vnd gesetz meinster mertin Siber</span>''' vnd ist <sup>ein</sup> zuck auß mangerley meinster gefechtenn vnd ist geteiltt vnd gesetz In sechs geng
+
| id="Hull1" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|1}}
| '''[24v] <span style="color:#a40000;">Hernach geschribn ist ain newe zetl des langen schwerts vnd ein außzug aus der voringen zetl / vnd vil ander guetter stuck võ manches maisters handt / die hat zu samen gesetzt maister Martein Syber vnd ist getailt in segs geng /</span>'''
+
| id="Salzburg1" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 001r.jpg|1|lbl=1r}}
| '''[39v] Das hernach geschribenn ist ein newe zetel''' des lannegnn schwerts und ein auszug aus der vorigenn zetelnn, und vil annder guten stuck, von manches meisters handt, die hat zusamen gesetzt meister Merten Siber, unnd ist getailt in sechs geng,
+
| id="Glasgow1" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 024v.jpg|1|lbl=24v}}
 +
| id="Rostock1" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 039v.png|3|lbl=39v}}
  
 
|-  
 
|-  
|  
+
| id="Trosclair2" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|2}}
| '''[2]''' And the Ox and the Plow therein named, along with the Parting hew and various other hews, have a different form and explanation than in the earlier epitome, and are also carried out in a different way.
+
| id="Kleinau2" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|2}}
| Vnd in der zittell ist der ochß vnd der pflug vnd scheyttell haulb nicht also als in der ersten zettell des puchs Sunder eyñ ander vß legüng
+
| id="Hull2" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|2}}
| Vnd der ochß vnd der pflueg darin genant mit sambt ettlichen hewen hat ain ander art vnd auslegung da in der voringen zetl vnd gett auch anderst zu /
+
| id="Salzburg2" |
| Unnd der Ochs und Pflug darin genent, mit sämpt etlichen hewenn, hat ein annder artt, unnd auslegung dan in der vogemelten zetelenn unnd gehet auch anders zu.
+
{{section|Page:MS M.I.29 001r.jpg|2|lbl=-|p=1}} {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 001v.jpg|1|lbl=1v|p=1}}
 +
| id="Glasgow2" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 024v.jpg|2|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Rostock2" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 040r.png|1|lbl=40r}}
  
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/><br/>
+
| id="Trosclair3" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|3}}
<poem><small>[1]</small>
+
| id="Kleinau3" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|3}}
 
+
| id="Hull3" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|3}}
 
+
| id="Salzburg3" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 001v.jpg|2|lbl=-}}
 
+
| id="Glasgow3" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 024v.jpg|3|lbl=-}}
<small>[5]</small>
+
| id="Rostock3" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 040r.png|2|lbl=-}}
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[10]</small>
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[15]</small>
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[20]</small>
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[25]</small>
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[30]</small></poem>
 
| '''[3] <span style="color:#a40000;">Here begins the foreword and lore of the same New Epitome, and thereafter, the six rounds.</span>'''
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Anyone who wants to earn honor
 
:Before the princes and lords
 
In fencing with the</span> sword,
 
:Who is good and just,
 
Who follows my lore
 
:May he be blessed forever.
 
The six rounds contain wards
 
:Which are precious and good,
 
As well as the great understanding of
 
:A great many good masters
 
From Hungary, Bohemia, Italy;
 
:From France, England, and Alamannia;
 
From Russia, Prussia, Greece,
 
:Holland, Brabant (or Provence?), and Swabia.
 
Should you enter into the left
 
:Remember this misleading
 
In thrusting press with strength
 
:Thus you should succeed
 
If you see the window standing open
 
:From that, go in through it
 
Strike or thrust quickly
 
:And you will hardly ever fail
 
In all the work tread around
 
:Take part in the engagement
 
If you now wish to begin with this
 
:You must have a strong courage
 
Common sense is also good
 
:Keep yourself from great wrath
 
And bring deflecting to such
 
:Through this you will succeed
 
In all your fencing be nimble
 
:This foreword has an end.</poem>
 
| Nu hebt sich an dy vor rede vnd lere der zettell dar noch die sechß genng ~
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">'''Wer ere will erwerbenn'''
 
'''vor furstenn vnd vor herenn'''
 
Im vechtenn mit dem</span> Swertt
 
dz ist gutt vnd gerecht
 
der volge mÿner lere
 
der gesiget ymermere
 
dy sechß genng halt in hu°tt
 
die sintt gar prißlich gutt
 
in den woll begriffen ist
 
vil manges gutte~ meinsters list
 
auß Vngern Behem Ÿtalia
 
auß Franckrich Engellant vnd almania
 
auß rewßen Prewßen Gretia
 
Hollant Profant vnd Sweuia
 
In den soltu tretten linck
 
der verfurüng do by gedennck
 
In stichenn st<del>r</del>arg dring
 
so mag dir wol geling
 
Sichstus venster offen stan
 
Si hinein gee dar von
 
schlag oder stich schnell
 
So magstu hartt geuell
 
in der arbeÿtt <del>d</del> vmb tritt
 
daß egeuertt mach mitt
 
Wiltu sie me hebenn an
 
ein ein starcken müstu han
 
Recht vernüfft ist auch gutt
 
von großem zornn '''[1v]''' dich behutt
 
zu sollicher versatzüng yn den pring
 
dar durch dir mag wol geling
 
In allem dinem vechten biß behende
 
dÿ vor lere hat ein ende ~</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Hie hebt sich die vorred an der selben newen zetl /</strong><br/><br/>
 
<poem>Wer ere wil erwerben
 
vor fu~rsten vnd vor herren /
 
Im vechtñ mit dem schwert /
 
das ist gut vnd bewert /
 
der volg meiner lere /
 
der gesÿeget ymmermere /
 
die sechs geng halt in huett /
 
die sind gar preislich gutt /
 
in den wol begriffen ist /
 
vil manches gutten maisters list /
 
Aus vngerñ behem aus italia /
 
Aus Franckreich Engelant
 
 
 
hollant prabant vnd aus sweuia /
 
In den soltu treten lenck /
 
der vorforu~ng da pey gedenck /
 
In stich starck dring /
 
So mag dir wol geling /
 
Sichtüs venster offen stan /
 
Sye hin ein gee darvon /
 
schlache oder stich vmb schnele /
 
so magstu hart felen /
 
Indes arbait tritt /
 
das egefert mach mit /
 
wildu sy nu heben an /
 
ein starcken muet müestu han /
 
recht vernufft ist auch gutt /
 
vor grossen zorñ dich behuet /
 
zu sõlicher versatzung yn da pringe /
 
dar dürch dir wol mag gelinge /
 
In allen deine~ vechtñ piß ehent /
 
die vorred hat hie ein endt /</poem>
 
| '''[40r] Hie hebt sich an die vorrede de selbenn neuenn zetelnn,'''
 
<poem>Wer ehr will erwerben,
 
vor fürsen und vor hernn,
 
Im fechten mit dme schwert,
 
das ist gut und gerecht.
 
Der volg meiner lehr,
 
der gesiget immermehr.
 
Die sechs geng halt in hut,
 
die sind gar preislich gut.
 
In den wol begriffen ist,
 
vil manches guten meisters list.
 
Aus Ungernn, Boham, aus Italia,
 
aus frankreich Engellandt, und Alimania,
 
aus Reussen Preussen Graecia,
 
Holland, Prabandt, und aus Suvenia.
 
In den soltu treten lenck,
 
der Verfürung dabey gedenck,
 
In Stich starck dring,
 
So mag dir wol gelingen,
 
Sichstu das fenster offen stan,
 
Siehe hinein gehe darvon,
 
Schlag oder stich schnek,
 
so magstu hartt gefel.
 
In der arbeit umbdrit,
 
das Egevert mach mitt.
 
Wiltu sie nue heben an,
 
ein starchen mut mustu han.
 
Rechte vernunft ist auch gut,
 
vor grossen zorn dich behut.
 
Zu solcher versatzung in do bring,
 
darduch dir wol mag geling
 
In al dein fechten biß[t] behend,
 
die vorred hat hie ein endt.</poem>
 
  
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/>
+
| id="Trosclair4" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|4}}
<poem>&nbsp;
+
| id="Kleinau4" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|4}}
 +
| id="Hull4" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|4}}
 +
| id="Salzburg4" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 001v.jpg|3|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Glasgow4" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 024v.jpg|4|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Rostock4" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 040v.png|1|lbl=40v}}
  
<small>[35]</small>
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[40]</small></poem>
 
| '''[4] <span style="color:#a40000;">The First Round Has Five Devices</span>'''
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Speed</span> the weak to the right
 
:Wind through in the fencing
 
Execute the Flick
 
:To both sides twice
 
Fore-wind his shield strongly
 
:Wind the bender with thrusts and strikes
 
In all the work tread around
 
:Thrust with the bender on the right.</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der erst gangck</strong>
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Snell</span> dy swech züm rechten
 
Durch wind im vechtenn
 
Den schneller do mit mach
 
Zu beyden sitenn zwiffach
 
Seins schilt starck verwindt
 
Den bogenn stos schlag geswinde
 
In aller arbeit vmb tritt
 
Den rechtenn bogenn stos mitt</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der Erst ganck hat funff Stück</strong>
 
<poem>Schnel die schwech zwm rechten /
 
durch wint im fechtn /
 
den schneller da mit mach /
 
zu paider seÿttñ zwifach /
 
Gens schilt starck verwint
 
den pogen stoß schlag geschwind /
 
In aller arbait vmb tritt
 
den rechtñ pogen stos mit /</poem>
 
| '''Der erst ganng hat funf stuck.'''
 
<poem>Schnel die schwech zum rechten,
 
durchwind im fechtenn.
 
Den schneller damit mach,
 
zu baider seitten zwifach.
 
Jenser schilt starck verwind,
 
den pogen stoß schlag geschwindt
 
In aller arbeit umbdrit,
 
den rechten pogen stoß mit.</poem><!--
 
          --><section begin="Krumphaw"/>
 
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/>
+
| id="Trosclair5" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|5}}
<poem>&nbsp;
+
| id="Kleinau5" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|5}}
 
+
| id="Hull5" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|5}}
 
+
| id="Salzburg5" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 002r.jpg|1|lbl=2r}}
 
+
| id="Glasgow5" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 025r.jpg|1|lbl=25r}}
<small>[45]</small>
+
| id="Rostock5" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 040v.png|2|lbl=-}}
 
 
 
 
  
 
<small>[50]</small></poem>
 
| '''[5] <span style="color:#a40000;">The Other Round Has Six Devices</span>'''
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Crooked</span> into the strong
 
:Wind through with care
 
Wind, Over-lope
 
:Interweave point and pommel
 
Thrust him in the face
 
:With the cross work fencing
 
You should remember to tear the pommel
 
:Above all you will vex him
 
In all the work tread around
 
:Take part in the engagement</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der ander ganck</strong>
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Krümb</span> in dy sterck
 
Durch wind mit merck
 
Wind vberlaüff /
 
verwoppen ortt vnd knouff
 
Stich im zu dem gesichtt
 
Des crutz arbeitt mit vichtt
 
Des verfurtenn knouffs das soltu gedenckenn
 
auff din haubt machstu yn krenckenn
 
In aller arbeitt vmb tritt
 
dz egeuertt mach mitt</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der ander gang hat sechs stuck</strong>
 
<poem>Krumb in die sterck /
 
durch wint da mit merck /
 
wint vberlauff /
 
verwoppen orth vnd knauff/
 
Stich yn zu seim gesicht /
 
des kreutz arbait damit ficht /
 
des verserten knauffe soltu gedencke~ /
 
auff dem haupt magstu in krencke~ /
 
In aller arbait vnd trit /
 
das egefert mach mit /</poem>
 
| '''[40v] Der ander gang hat Sechs Stuck.'''
 
<poem>Krump in die sterck,
 
durchwend mit merck.
 
Wind uberlauff,
 
verwapen ort unnd knauff.
 
Stich in zu seinn gesicht,
 
des Creutz arbeit mit ficht.
 
Des verfürten knaufs soltu gedenken,
 
auf dem hauptt machstu in krenckenn.
 
In aller arbeit umbdrit,
 
das egevert mach mit.</poem><!--
 
          --><section end="Krumphaw"/><section begin="Twerhaw"/><section begin="Schilhaw"/>
 
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/>
+
| id="Trosclair6" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|6}}
<poem>&nbsp;
+
| id="Kleinau6" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|6}}
 +
| id="Hull6" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|6}}
 +
| id="Salzburg6" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 002r.jpg|2|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Glasgow6" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 025r.jpg|2|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Rostock6" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 040v.png|3|lbl=-}}
  
 
 
<small>[55]</small>
 
 
 
 
 
<small>[60]</small></poem>
 
| '''[6] <span style="color:#a40000;">The Third Round Has Seven Devices</span>'''
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Glance at what</span> comes <span style="color:#a40000;">from the Roof</span>
 
:Thwart through, go not Crooked
 
Act appropriately with him
 
:Execute the Glancing Hew
 
Take off nimbly
 
:Threaten a hew against him
 
Press the shield at the strong
 
:Overcome with Over-loping
 
Be strong in the clashing
 
In all the work tread around
 
:Take part in the engagement</poem>
 
| '''[2r] <span style="color:#a40000;">Der tritt ganck</span>'''
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Schil wz von tag</span> kümpt
 
Durch zwirch gein nit krümpt
 
dar in schaulb sin sach
 
den halb schiller mit mach
 
nyms ab gar behende
 
droe den haulb wider in
 
den schiltt ym starck verdring
 
mit vberlouff in bezwing
 
in der sterck siner klingenn
 
In aller arbeitt vmb tritt
 
dz egeuertt mach mitt</poem>
 
| '''[25r] <span style="color:#a40000;">Der trit gang hat Syben Stück</span>'''
 
<poem>Schil was vom tag kumbt /
 
durchwirchgen nit frümbt /
 
darin schaw sein sach /
 
den halbschaittler mit mach /
 
nym ab gar behendt /
 
dw den haw wider endt /
 
den schilt im starck verdring /
 
mit vberlauff in bezwing
 
in der sterck seiner klingen
 
in aller arbait vmbtritt /
 
das egefert mach auch mit /</poem>
 
| '''Der drit ganzg hat Sieben stuchk.'''
 
<poem>Schil was vom tak kumbt,
 
durchzwirch gem nit frumbt.
 
Darin schaw sein sach,
 
den halbschaitler mit mach.
 
Nimbs ab gar behend,
 
dro, den haw wider endt.
 
Dem schilt im stark verdring,
 
it uberlauf in bezwing,
 
in der sterck seiner kling.
 
In aller arbeit umbdrit,
 
das egevert mach mitt.</poem><!--
 
          --><section end="Schilhaw"/><section end="Twerhaw"/><section begin="Scheitelhaw"/>
 
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/>
+
| id="Trosclair7" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|7}}
<poem>&nbsp;
+
| id="Kleinau7" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|7}}
 +
| id="Hull7" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|7}}
 +
| id="Salzburg7" |
 +
{{section|Page:MS M.I.29 002r.jpg|3|lbl=-|p=1}}<br/>{{section|Page:MS M.I.29 002v.jpg|1|lbl=2v|p=1}}
 +
| id="Glasgow7" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 025r.jpg|3|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Rostock7" |
 +
{{section|Page:MS Var.82 040v.png|4|lbl=-|p=1}}<br/>{{section|Page:MS Var.82 041r.png|1|lbl=41r|p=1}}
  
 
<small>[65]</small></poem>
 
| '''[7] <span style="color:#a40000;">The Fourth Round Has Five Devices</span>'''
 
<poem>Thrust through <span style="color:#a40000;">the Ox</span>
 
:With two great steps
 
Wind and counter-wind
 
:Execute the Scalp Hew quickly
 
Wind, strike for quick results
 
:In the stomach and on the neck
 
In all the work tread around
 
:Take part in the engagement</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der virdt ganck</strong>
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Den ochßenn</span> durch stos
 
Mitt zwienn schrittenn groß
 
Windt vnd wider windt
 
Den scheitteller haulb mach geschwindt
 
windt / den treffer bald schlag
 
in den buch vnd vff den nack
 
In aller arbeitt vmb tritt
 
daß egeuertt mach mitt ~</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der viert gang hat fünff Stück</strong>
 
<poem>Den ochsen durch stoß /
 
mit zweÿen schrittñ groß /
 
windt vnd wid~ wint /
 
den schaittler haw mach geschwint /
 
windt den treffer pald schlag /
 
in den pauch vnd auff den nack /
 
in aller arbait vmb reyt
 
das egefert mach mit /</poem>
 
| '''Der vierd ganng hat fünf stuck'''
 
<poem>Den Ochsen durchstos,
 
mit zwei schriten groß,
 
Wind und wider wind,
 
den schaitelhaw mach geschwind,
 
Wund, den treffer pald schlag,
 
In den bauch und auf de[n] nack.
 
In aller arbeit umdrit,
 
das Egevert mach mit.</poem><!--
 
          --><section end="Scheitelhaw"/>
 
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/>
+
| id="Trosclair8" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|8}}
<poem><small>[70]</small>
+
| id="Kleinau8" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|8}}
 +
| id="Hull8" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|8}}
 +
| id="Salzburg8" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 002v.jpg|2|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Glasgow8" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 025r.jpg|4|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Rostock8" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 041r.png|2|lbl=-}}
  
 
 
 
<small>[75]</small></poem>
 
| '''[8] <span style="color:#a40000;">The Fifth Round Has Five Devices</span>'''
 
<poem>Thrust <span style="color:#a40000;">through</span> the long point
 
:Draw against the thrust and kill
 
Let the Blind Hew Rebound
 
:Thus you will go well and flow
 
Hang against it quickly
 
:Treat behind against him with speed
 
On the head, in the stomach
 
:Thus you make him a right fool
 
In all the work tread around
 
:Take part in the engagement</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der funfft ganck</strong>
 
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Durch</span> stich den langenn ortt
 
Zu°ck wider stich denn mortt
 
Den plintt haulb laß prellenn
 
So magtu gen wol wellenn
 
'''[2v]''' Heng wider also baldt
 
Hinder tritt wider schnall
 
Vff denn kopff in den bu°ch
 
So machstu auß im ein rechtenn gauch
 
In aller arbeitt vmb tritt
 
Das egeuertt mach mitt</poem>
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der fünff gangk hat fu~nff stuck</strong>
 
<poem>Durch schreich den langen orth /
 
zuck wider stich den mort /
 
den plinthawen laß prellen /
 
so magstu gen wol fellen /
 
heng nyder also pald
 
hindtertruck wider / schnãll
 
auff den kopf in den pauch /
 
so magstu aus im ein rechte~ gauch /
 
in aller arbait vmb trit /
 
das egefert mach mit</poem>
 
| '''Der fünft gang hat fünf stuck.'''
 
<poem>Durchstreich denn lanngenn ort,
 
zuck, wider stich dann mordt.
 
Denn Plinthaw las prellenn,
 
so magstu yenen wol fellen.
 
'''[41r]''' Heng wider also baldt,
 
hintertrit wider schnal.
 
Auff den kopff in den bauch,
 
so machst aus in ein rechten gauch.
 
In aller arbeit umbdrit,
 
das Egevert mach mit.</poem><!--
 
          --><section begin="Twerhaw"/>
 
 
|-  
 
|-  
| <br/>
+
| id="Trosclair9" | {{section|Martin Syber/Christian Trosclair|9}}
<poem><small>[80]</small>
+
| id="Kleinau9" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jens P. Kleinau|9}}
 +
| id="Hull9" | {{section|Martin Syber/Jeffrey Hull|9}}
 +
| id="Salzburg9" | {{section|Page:MS M.I.29 002v.jpg|3|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Glasgow9" | {{section|Page:MS E.1939.65.341 025r.jpg|5|lbl=-}}
 +
| id="Rostock9" | {{section|Page:MS Var.82 041r.png|3|lbl=-}}
  
 +
|}
 +
</div>
  
 +
{{master begin
 +
| title = Copyright and License Summary
 +
| width = 100%
 +
}}
 +
For further information, including transcription and translation notes, see the [[Talk:{{PAGENAME}}|discussion page]].
  
 
+
<section begin="sourcebox"/>{{sourcebox header}}
<small>[85]</small></poem>
+
{{sourcebox
| '''[9] <span style="color:#a40000;">The Sixth Round has Four Devices</span>'''
+
| work        = Translation
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">From the Roof</span> drive through long
+
| authors    = [[translator::Christian Trosclair]]
:With fore-winding defend high
+
| source link =
Thwart through even quicker
+
| source title= Wiktenauer
:Then Blind Hew against him with speed
+
| license    = noncommercial
Tip Hew into his breast
+
}}
:And he has lost after all.
+
{{sourcebox
In all the work tread around
+
| work        = [[Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)|Salzburg Version]]
:Take part in the engagement</poem>
+
| authors    = [[Dierk Hagedorn]]
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Der sechst ganck</strong>
+
| source link =
<poem><span style="color:#a40000;">Vom tag</span> lang durch var
+
| source title= [[Index:Codex Speyer (MS M.I.29)]]
Mit verwindenn dich bewar
+
| license    = copyrighted
Durch zwuerch ym gar baldt
+
}}
Den plyntt haulb wider schnall
+
{{sourcebox
Den ortt haulb in sein brust
+
| work        = [[Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)|Glasgow Version]]
Nach allem deim verlu°st
+
| authors    = [[Dierk Hagedorn]]
In aller arbeitt vmb tritt
+
| source link =
Daß egeuertt mach mitt</poem>
+
| source title= [[Index:Glasgow Fechtbuch (MS E.1939.65.341)]]
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Das sechs ganck hatt vier stuck</strong>
+
| license    = copyrighted
<poem>Vom tag lang dürch far /
+
}}
mit verwinten dich bewar /
+
{{sourcebox
durchzwirch ym gar palde
+
| work        = [[Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)|Rostock Version]]
den plint hawe wider schnalle /
+
| authors    = [[Dierk Hagedorn]]
dein orth haw yn sein prust /
+
| source link =
nach allem deinem verlust
+
| source title= [[Index:Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss (MS Var.82)]]
in aller arbait vmb tritt
+
| license    = copyrighted
des egefert mach mit /</poem>
+
}}
| '''Der Sechst gang hat vier stuck.'''
+
{{sourcebox footer}}<section end="sourcebox"/>
<poem>Vom tag lang durch far,
+
{{master end}}
mit verwinten dich bewar.
 
Durchzwirch im gar bald,
 
den Plinthaw wider schnal.
 
Den ort haw in sein brust,
 
nach allem dein lust.
 
In aller arbeit umbdrit,
 
das Egevert mach mit.</poem><!--
 
          --><section end="Twerhaw"/>
 
|-
 
|  
 
| '''[10] <span style="color:#a40000;">Here the New Epitome has an end.</span>'''
 
''Martin Syber's Epitome with the six rounds which he has put together were used in fencing by many Masters; who knows and understands them well is to be praised as a good Master of the Long Sword, better than many other Masters.''
 
| <strong style="color:#a40000;">Finis etc</strong>
 
| Finis huig materie
 
| '''Hie hat die new zetel ein enndt.'''
 
Mertenn Sibers zeteln mit denn 6 gengen, Als ers zusamenn gesetzt hat, vonn mancherley meisters, gefecht, wer die wol kann, und verstehet, ist wol zu breysenn für ein gutenn meister des lannngenn schwerts vor vil andern meisternn.
 
 
 
|}
 
{{hidden end}}
 
  
 
== Additional Resources ==
 
== Additional Resources ==
  
* [[Jeffrey Hull|Hull, Jeffrey]]. "The Longsword Fight Lore of Mertin Siber." ''Masters of Medieval and Renaissance Martial Arts''. Ed. Jeffrey Hull. Boulder, CO: [[Paladin Press]], 2008. ISBN 978-1-58160-668-3
+
{{bibliography}}
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
  
{{reflist}}
+
{{reflist|2}}
 
{{DEFAULTSORT:Syber, Martin}}
 
{{DEFAULTSORT:Syber, Martin}}
 
{{Liechtenauer tradition}}
 
{{Liechtenauer tradition}}
Line 582: Line 204:
  
 
[[Category:Longsword]]
 
[[Category:Longsword]]
 +
 +
[[Category:New format]]
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[[Category:Modular display]]

Latest revision as of 03:22, 12 July 2024

Martin Syber
Born 15th century (?)
Died 15th century (?)
Occupation Fencing master
Influences Johannes Liechtenauer (?)
Genres Fencing manual
Language Early New High German
Notable work(s) New Zettel
Manuscript(s)
Concordance by Michael Chidester
Translations

Martin Syber (Mertin Siber, Martein Syber) was a 15th century German fencing master. Hardly anything is known of Syber beyond his New Zettel ("New Recital"). His surname signifies that he came from a family of sieve makers, but gives us no indication of his birthplace. According to Syber's own account, he learned the art from a variety of masters from across Europe, including men from Bohemia, Brabant (or possibly Provence), England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Prussia, Russia, and Swabia. The inclusion of his Recital in Codex Speyer and the Glasgow Fechtbuch suggests a connection to the tradition of Johannes Liechtenauer, and his mention of an "earlier Zettel" is likely a reference to that of Liechtenauer; however, Syber does not appear on the roll of the Fellowship of Liechtenauer recorded by Paulus Kal in ca. 1470,[1] so the extent of his relationship is unclear.

Syber's Recital comes in the form a cryptic poem describing six Gänge, set sequences of strikes and parries. Unfortunately, no gloss is currently known to exist for Syber's verse, so its meaning is difficult to decipher. Conversely, it is worth noting that the 16th century Freifechter Joachim Meÿer not only had access to Syber's verse (which is included in his final manuscript),[2] but also employed much of the master's unique terminology in his own teachings. Meÿer may thus hold the key to interpreting Syber's techniques.

The Salzburg version of Syber's text is followed by an additional page of verse. This poem shares some common terminology with Syber's writings and has been attributed to Syber by some authors in the past,[3] but its omission from the other two versions of his text call this attribution into question. In addition, another version of the poem was included in one of Hans Talhoffer's manuscripts almost fifty years earlier,[4] which indicates that if Syber were indeed the author, his career must have been much earlier than currently believed.

Treatise

Select one or more fencing styles using the checkboxes below to view the associated treatises.

The number in brackets at the beginning of each translation box is a paragraph number assigned by Wiktenauer; clicking it will take you to the translation page. The numbers in brackets in the transcriptions with an "r" or "v" are manuscript folio numbers; clicking them will take you to original page scan with the transcription alongside for comparison. If you want to sort a column by number, click the black triangles in the table headers.

Weapons

Long sword

Translations

Complete Translation Complete translation (2014) by Christian Trosclair

Complete Translation (Salzburg only) Complete translation (2011) by Jens P. Kleinau

Complete Translation (Salzburg only) Complete translation (2005) by Jeffrey Hull

Transcriptions

Salzburg Version (1491) by Dierk Hagedorn

Glasgow Version (1508) by Dierk Hagedorn

Rostock Version (1570) by Dierk Hagedorn

Complete Translation Complete translation (2014)
by Christian Trosclair

Complete Translation (Salzburg only) Complete translation (2011)
by Jens P. Kleinau

Complete Translation (Salzburg only) Complete translation (2005)
by Jeffrey Hull

Salzburg Version (1491) [edit]
Transcribed by Dierk Hagedorn

Glasgow Version (1508) [edit]
Transcribed by Dierk Hagedorn

Rostock Version (1570) [edit]
Transcribed by Dierk Hagedorn

Nu hebt sich an dy vor rede vnd lere der zettell dar noch die sechß genng ~

Wer ere will erwerbenn
vor furstenn vnd vor herenn
Im vechtenn mit dem
Swertt
dz ist gutt vnd gerecht
der volge mÿner lere
der gesiget ymermere
dy sechß genng halt in hu°tt
die sintt gar prißlich gutt
in den woll begriffen ist
vil manges gutte~ meinsters list
auß Vngern Behem Ÿtalia
auß Franckrich Engellant vnd almania
auß rewßen Prewßen Gretia
Hollant Profant vnd Sweuia
In den soltu tretten linck
der verfurüng do by gedennck
In stichenn strarg dring
so mag dir wol geling
Sichstus venster offen stan
Si hinein gee dar von
schlag oder stich schnell
So magstu hartt geuell
in der arbeÿtt d vmb tritt
daß egeuertt mach mitt
Wiltu sie me hebenn an
ein ein starcken müstu han
Recht vernüfft ist auch gutt
von großem zornn [1v] dich behutt
zu sollicher versatzüng yn den pring
dar durch dir mag wol geling
In allem dinem vechten biß behende
dÿ vor lere hat ein ende ~

Der funfft ganck

Durch stich den langenn ortt
Zu°ck wider stich denn mortt
Den plintt haulb laß prellenn
So magtu gen wol wellenn
[2v] Heng wider also baldt
Hinder tritt wider schnall
Vff denn kopff in den bu°ch
So machstu auß im ein rechtenn gauch
In aller arbeitt vmb tritt
Das egeuertt mach mitt

Der funft gang hat funf stuck.

Durchstreich denn lanngenn ort,
tzuck, Widerstich denn mordt.
Denn Plinthaw las Prellenn,
so magstu genen wol fellenn
[41r] Heng wider also baldt,
hintertrit wider schnal.
Auff denn kopff in denn bauch,
so machst aus im ein Rechtenn gauch.
In aller arbeit vmbdrit,
das Egeuert mach mit.

Additional Resources

The following is a list of publications containing scans, transcriptions, and translations relevant to this article, as well as published peer-reviewed research.

  • Hull, Jeffrey (2008). "The Longsword Fight Lore of Mertin Siber." Masters of Medieval and Renaissance Martial Arts: 223-238. Ed. by John Clements. Boulder, CO: Paladin Press. ISBN 978-1-58160-668-3.

References

  1. The Fellowship of Liechtenauer is recorded in three versions of Paulus Kal's treatise: MS 1825 (1460s), Cgm 1507 (ca. 1470), and MS KK5126 (1480s).
  2. Meÿer, Joachim. Fechtbuch zu Ross und zu Fuss [manuscript]. MS Varia 82. Rostock, Germany: Universitätsbibliothek Rostock, 1570.
  3. Hull, Jeffrey. "Mertin Siber’s Longsword Fight-Lore of 1491 AD: a thesis on the Fechtlehre from Handschrift M I 29 (Codex Speyer) at the University of Salzburg in Austria". The Association for Renaissance Martial Arts, 2005. Retrieved 23 November 2014.
  4. Talhoffer, Hans. Untitled [manuscript]. MS Thott 290.2º. Copenhagen, Denmark: Det Kongelige Bibliotek, 1459.
  5. alt: departure
  6. The Salzburg differs: Item. The hereafter written new recital Master Martin Syber had prepared and set-down and is a selection of many masterful applications and is partitioned and set down in six courses
  7. G & R omit
  8. G: previous
  9. R: previously illustrated
  10. zugehen is a synonym for zufechten here
  11. S: omitted
  12. alt: the hard
  13. mitmachen. alt: completes
  14. ehegefährt note: this is attacking in the vor.
  15. know-how
  16. alt: overwhelm; turn(away, aside), entwine, entangle, wrap
  17. alt: jab
  18. G & R: the
  19. alt: make the first-pass too
  20. alt: make the first-pass too
  21. G & R: half-parter
  22. alt: make the half-squinter too
  23. S: you
  24. alt: Force-out the shield in the strong
  25. alt: make the first-pass too
  26. R: Then make...
  27. alt: make the first-pass too
  28. G & R: Strike
  29. G & R: fail or fall
  30. G: down
  31. alt: as soon as. (just in time)
  32. alt: make the first-pass too
  33. alt: twisting
  34. G: your