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.
Hello archaeology enthusiasts, fighters and fellow history aficionados, there is quite a lot happening behind the scenes at the moment — from ancient weapons and practical martial arts research to medieval emperors and historical films. So today, let me take you from a Late Bronze Age spearhead to an upcoming spear-and-shield course, two opportunities to train together, yesterday’s remarkable events in Magdeburg — and finally two film projects that I am very much looking forward to seeing....
Hello fellow history enthusiasts and blade aficionados, one of the great privileges of studying original weapons is that there are things an object can reveal in your hands which are remarkably difficult to recognise from photographs, measurements or typological descriptions alone. But researching an object is one thing; communicating what you have learned is another. Sometimes it takes a detailed drawing. Sometimes, video and photos would do the job — however, permission to share them with...
Hello fellow history enthusiasts and blade aficionados, The past fortnight has been wonderfully busy. From teaching at HEMA Camp 1387 in Lithuania and studying remarkable museum pieces to continuing several long-term research and reconstruction projects, there has been plenty to keep me occupied. I hope you'll enjoy the latest updates. A Week of Swords in Lithuania I have just returned from an unforgettable week in Lithuania, filled with fencing, research, museum visits, inspiring...