* Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth boldly unravels with compelling and provocative hypothesis on the Hispanic origins of the Filipino Martial Arts known as eskrima, arnis and estokada * The last vestiges of the extinct European medieval fencing could be found indirectly linked to Filipino eskrima * The authors present prima facie evidence on the fraud of the supposedly precursor art called kali * A more plausible theory on the origins of eskrima are presented in startling detail from its early beginnings as a defense against Moro pirates and slave traders and its later fusion with Spanish fencing through the Jesuit warrior priests during the pivotal years 1635-1644, the height of Spanish rapier fencing in Europe during the Renaissance * It also presents a comprehensive chronology on the development of eskrima in Cebu, a meticulous commentary of Cebuano pioneers and innovators of eskrima and elucidates the pre-eminence of Visayans in the art of eskrima / arnis / estokada * As both authors are practitioners of this martial art, technicalities in eskrima never before detailed in other materials on the subject are carefully discussed in the book * Other interesting topics related to eskrima like the esoteric practices and healing modalities are also explained in fascinating detail.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Cebuano Eskrima is a MUST read if you're training in the FMAs:
If you're training in Filipino Martial arts, it behooves you to learn the history of your Art (so you may be able to speak intelligently about the art your practicing). There are already plenty of publications that describe training, techniques and individual styles. [..] This book is DIFFERENT. It is a book which attempts to remedy the historical misconceptions made popular in the U.S. regarding the Filipino fighting arts. Now that Filipinos from the Philippines have a voice in the matter, these... more info
An Axe to Grind. An Agenda to Promote.:
The author presents a logical and researched opinion on a subject of limited interest to a specialized group. There is a definite political agenda at work in this book. I found the book interesting and its arguments persuasive, but of little consequence to the martial arts world in general. This is a matter for the Filipino people to adjudicate and decide. After all, it is their culture and heretage, they should be the arbitors.
A great read!:
I enjoyed this book very much. I especially enjoyed the historical analysis and research on eskrima. Made me really think and re-analyze certain things that are taken for granted with in Filipino Martial Arts.
Top class:
I have to honestly say that this has to be the most informative book on the history of Filipino martial arts ever written, well researched, well writen and well put together. The authors dispel many myths about the Filipino martial arts and open up a whole new out-look as to where and when the art of Eskrima / Arnis has it's roots. Top class and very informative book, if you are serious about your Filipino martial arts and whether you agree with their findings or not, this is a serious peice of... more info
