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.
When History Gets Distorted – And Bucklers Get Raised Train, Fence, Connect – Berlin Buckler Bouts 24 Await! Dear fellow history enthusiasts and sword-and-shield fighters, in this edition, I invite you to take a closer look at how history is sometimes bent out of shape—whether in glossy TV dramas or even academic projects—through my two recent posts on Distorted History. At the same time, I’m delighted to share that registration is now open for the 24th Berlin Buckler Bouts this November—our...
Join the Ribe Bouts! Spear-and-shield workshop at the 2024 Ribe Bouts Hello sword-and-shield enthusiasts, I am delighted to announce that the Ribe VikingeCenter will once again host the second Ribe Bouts from 17–19 October 2025. All meals will be prepared authentically on site. This unique event combines the practice of historical martial arts with a full-time living history experience. You can find more details and many images in my dedicated post—feel free to share the link with your fellow...
Don’t strike the initial blow from your right, if you are left-handed! My friend Ingo Petri with a left-handed schiavona from the collection of the Veste Coburg Hello fellow history enthusiasts and martial artists, The above advice comes from the late medieval German Fechtbuch Hs 44 A 8. On folio 11v, the author offers general tips on how to fight in a duel between a right- and a left-handed combatant. Clearly, left-handed fighters were a historical reality—something also supported by the...