Self-Defense for Gentlemen and Ladies

"Self-Defense for Gentleman and Ladies" is a comprehensive 19th-century manual by Colonel Thomas Hoyer Monstery, a master swordsman with a colorful history of dueling and combat. This collection of his newspaper articles offers insights into Victorian-era fighting techniques, including unique styles such as British “purring” and American rough-and-tumble. Accompanied by fifty rare illustrations, the book provides practical instruction in self-defense using various weapons and bare hands, while a detailed glossary and biography enhance its relevance for modern readers interested in martial arts and historical culture.