I’m Roland Warzecha — professional illustrator and swordsman. The name Dimicator comes from the Latin for “sword fighter.” I share cutting-edge research into historical martial arts, focusing in particular on Viking and high medieval sword-and-shield combat. My work is carried out in collaboration with museums, fellow martial artists, and scholars around the world.
Wolf Hall, Authenticity, and Swordplay: Reflections & Event Updates
Wolf Hall — The Mirror and the Light: A ReviewDear fellow history enthusiasts and film fans, I recently watched the second and final season of Wolf Hall, and it reminded me why the first has long been my favourite historical drama. The storytelling, cast, and visual style remain extraordinary, and I even learned something new about Tudor England from the inclusion of an extra based on historical trumpeter John Blanke, a musician of African descent at Henry’s court. All the more frustrating, then, that the production also chose to depart from evidence with colour-blind casting for some other figures, undermining the authenticity for which the series is otherwise justly praised. In my view, well-meant distortions only weaken the case for real, evidence-based diversity in history. Still, I wholeheartedly recommend Wolf Hall — The Mirror and the Light. It is a superb achievement, and a reminder of how powerful historical drama can be when it takes the past seriously.
Ribe Bouts & Berlin Buckler Bouts — Don’t Miss Out!A quick reminder:
Both events still have free spots available! But remember: registration is only complete once I’ve received your signed liability waiver. The forms are available for download directly from the respective event posts. Several of you have expressed interest on social media or by email — thank you! To help us organise these non-profit events smoothly, please send back your signed forms as soon as possible. It makes planning the training, meals, and accommodation much easier for everyone involved. I look forward to welcoming you in Ribe and Berlin for more great fencing, shared meals, and international friendship. Until then — keep your swords polished, your shields up! If you enjoyed this newsletter, please recommend it to your friends. They can sign up here or on my website. Or simply forward them this email. Improve your skills with our sword-and-buckler online courses. If you wish to read more, find hundreds of related posts on my Patreon. Special thanks to all my loyal supporters on Patreon – you keep me going! And if you are not a patron yet, you are most welcome to join. If you feel like dropping a coin into my tip jar, you can do so here. Thank you for your time and your interest. Yours, Roland You are receiving this newsletter because you have signed up for it, or because you have previously expressed your interest in my work and events. If you prefer to not receive further emails, you can unsubscribe below. |
Dimicator
I’m Roland Warzecha — professional illustrator and swordsman. The name Dimicator comes from the Latin for “sword fighter.” I share cutting-edge research into historical martial arts, focusing in particular on Viking and high medieval sword-and-shield combat. My work is carried out in collaboration with museums, fellow martial artists, and scholars around the world.
Continuity in European Combat Arts? Hello fellow sword enthusiasts, researchers, and fighters, How did people actually fight in close combat 3,000 years ago—and how much of that knowledge survived into the age of the fechtbücher? Mycenaean imagery occassionally shows an overhand thrust known as oberstich in late medieval German combat treatises Recently, a viewer asked why I do not demonstrate the use of Bronze Age swords with what he called a “hammer grip” — essentially gripping the weapon...
Studying Originals, Recreating History Holding an original Bronze Age sword in your hands is always a moment of quiet astonishment. Hello archaeology aficionados, The ingenious design and ergonomics of these weapons never cease to amaze me. Thanks to the courtesy of Professor Harald Meller and Dr Jan-Heinrich Bunnefeld, I had the opportunity to examine several bronze swords at the State Museum of Prehistory in Halle, home of the world-famous Nebra Sky Disc. One of the grips that works really...
Hello fellow bucklerista, You are most welcome to sign up for an action-packed weekend of sword & buckler fencing with practitioners from all over the world. The next BBB are scheduled for the weekend of 30/31 May 2026. Find info on the event and registration here: Go to Event Post We are looking forward to fencing and celebrating international friendship with you at the Berlin Buckler Bouts. Ralf, Roland & the Twerchhau team Attendees of the 24th BBB. Get the group photo here.