What's the difference between classical fencing and modern fencing?

Classical fencing is modern fencing—if by modern you mean post-1800. If by "modern" you mean the olympic sport of fencing as governed by the USAF and FIE, then there are several important differences: We view fencing as a martial art, not as a sport. Our goal is self-mastery, not winning medals. We use contests as opportunities to test our progress or to improve our progress, but we believe that winning is the result of excellence, not the definition of it. We do not use an electrical scoring apparatus, preferring to trust to the skill and integrity of the fencers and the officials. Our style of fencing is very realistic, since we conceive of the swords as sharp. The object is not to hit first, but to hit without being hit. I don't teach anything that you couldn't or shouldn't do in a real fight. We have a strict code of conduct that is at least as important as technical skill.  more