In the bustling city of Jakarta, a group of dedicated individuals is reviving the ancient art of European medieval sword-fighting. Armed with blunt swords, these modern-day knights gather every Sunday to practice Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), a discipline that dates back to the 14th to 18th centuries. This unique scene unfolds outside the sprawling Gelora Bung Karno stadium, where members of the Gwaith-i-Megyr group showcase their skills in a bid to keep this historical practice alive.
“The experience is beyond what I imagined. The thrill of sparring with weapons is far more exhilarating than unarmed combat,” shared Gede Indra Krisega, a 23-year-old civil servant who is part of this passionate community.
Reviving a Medieval Tradition
Established in 2016, the Gwaith-i-Megyr group was born from a local fan club dedicated to J.R.R. Tolkien, the legendary author of the Lord of the Rings series. The club members’ fascination with Tolkien’s work naturally led them to explore HEMA. Today, the group boasts nearly 50 members across Jakarta and its sister branch in Bandung. The name “Gwaith-i-Megyr,” meaning “Fellowship of Swordsmen,” is inspired by Sindarin, a fictional language crafted by Tolkien, as explained by Ahmad Rizal Soulisa, one of the founding members.
HEMA practitioners delve into historical manuals left by ancient masters to learn and revive traditional techniques. Their interest goes beyond mere combat or cinematic allure; it is deeply rooted in a genuine appreciation for the history and intricacies of European sword-fighting.
Chasing Global Recognition
Sekar Widya Putri, who joined the Gwaith-i-Megyr in 2017, initially had modest expectations. However, she soon discovered a profound appreciation for the educational aspects of HEMA. “Understanding the nuances of the art, such as the reasons behind specific parries and identifying vulnerable body parts, is fascinating,” she remarked.
With years of training under her belt, the 30-year-old copywriter now dreams of making her mark on the international HEMA stage. The global rankings, which track competitors from around the world, currently feature only one Indonesian, who participated in a tournament in Taiwan in 2019. “I aspire to see another Indonesian name on that list,” Putri expressed with determination.
As the Gwaith-i-Megyr group continues to grow, its members remain committed to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of European martial arts. Their dedication not only keeps the tradition alive but also inspires others to explore the depths of this historical practice. In a world where modernity often overshadows the past, these Indonesian knights stand as a testament to the enduring allure of medieval sword-fighting.
