Fencing Teacher (novel, Perez-Reverte)

The Fencing Teacher is Arturo Perez-Reverte’s second novel, but first published. Fencing Teacher is a finely styled historical novel.

In The Fencing Teacher, the author describes life in Spain in the 19th century, in its traditions and history. In pre-revolutionary Spain of 1866 an old man lives, a fencing teacher who is desperately trying to maintain his honor and dignity, to stay away from political squabbles, and not to disturb the calm course of his life. He succeeds until a mysterious student appears on the threshold of his house. The protagonist experiences love “within himself”, without demonstrating it, for fear of harming himself and his student. At the same time, the teacher finds himself drawn into political intrigue, acting as the victim who was lured into a trap. And the way out of this intrigue is really scary.

In 1992, the novel was filmed by the director Pedro Olea under the title “ Sword Master ” ( Spanish: El Maestro De Esgrima ; another name is “Fencing Teacher”). The film was nominated in eight categories for the Goya Prize , of which three were awarded.

Page of the novel on the official website of the writer (Spanish)