In 'A New System of Sword Exercise for Infantry', Richard Francis Sir Burton bequeaths to the martial archive a manual that is as much a historical document as it is a practical guide. Melding his extensive knowledge of fencing with the military tactics of the time, Burton's treatise delivers an intricate tableau of Victorian swordsmanship. Illustrated with precision, the text marries the flourish of historical combat with the exigencies of infantry training, encapsulated within the literary context of military manuals of the 19th century. Its enduring appeal lies in its meticulous approach and the author's authoritative voice, which commands respect and contemplation amongst enthusiasts and scholars alike.In the pantheon of literary and explorative figures, Sir Richard Francis Burton stands as a colossus. An explorer, linguist, and ethnographer, Burton's lifetime of adventure and scholarly pursuits provided him an unparalleled expertise in the diverse practices of combat and culture. This book is the progeny of a mind steeped in the rigors of both academic and physical trials, a work undoubtedly born from a lifetime of worldly experience and a profound understanding of the interplay between martial discipline and its representation in literature.'A New System of Sword Exercise for Infantry' is an essential acquisition for academics and practitioners of historical martial arts. With its scholarly underpinnings, it offers more than instruction; it enlightens the reader about the cultural significance of swordplay amidst the evolution of military training. Historians of military affairs and literature, as well as individuals seeking to comprehend the intricacies of Victorian martial practices, will find in its pages a wealth of knowledge and a renewed appreciation for the sword as both tool and symbol in the fabric of history.

Sir Richard Francis Burton (18211890) was a British explorer, geographer, translator, writer, soldier, orientalist, cartographer, ethnologist, spy, linguist, poet, fencer, and diplomat renowned for his adventurous and multifaceted career. One of his contributions is the lesser-known manual 'A New System of Sword Exercise for Infantry' (1876), reflecting his expertise in fencing and military discipline. Burton's colorful life and expansive travels informed his literary works, which were as diverse as his life experiences. He is perhaps best known for his translations, including the unexpurgated version of 'One Thousand and One Nights' and his seminal translation of 'The Kama Sutra'. His linguistic proficiency extended to 29 languages, facilitating his in-depth studies of eastern cultures. Moreover, his ethnographic work 'The Book of the Sword' (1884) remains significant in the context of arms and armory studies. Burton's literary style combined rigorous scholarship with a deeply personal narrative that was both erudite and accessible, often infused with the experiences garnered during his extensive explorations. Scholarly yet readable, his works have endured as both academic resources and entertaining travel literature. His biographies, penned by various authors, further underscore the complexity and enduring intrigue of this Victorian polymath.