Nathan Barnatt
Nathan Barnett's passion for historical fencing springs from a more general love of history and the arts. His study of English focused on Renaissance and Medieval literature. After taking a Masters degree from Kent State University in 1995 he began traveling, spreading the next 3 years around Greece, Japan, a fair number of the 50 states and a good 6 months at sea. Settling in the Seattle area in 1998, he rediscovered his interest in the English Renaissance.
Nathan's interest in martial arts began in 1982 with the study a number of Asian styles. Despite intensive study, none of them struck a warm spot in his heart until in 1999 he began to study European swordplay. In 2000, still frightfully green in sword but with a wealth of training and instructional skill from other styles, he joined Cecil Longino at Academia della Spada. In 2001 he devoted himself to the cut-and-thrust sword, eventually settling upon the treatises of George Silver. Since then he has worked to develop a practical interpretation true to Silver's text which can be pursued by serious scholars of fencing. In 2004 The Academy began a curriculum devoted to Silver's backsword with classes taught 3 days per week in the Seattle area.
In 2003 with his partner Cindy Madsen he founded Ravenrook Ltd, a clearinghouse of historical arts, educational resources, catering, and mercantile goods. He studies lute, recorder and voice and performs regularly with Blood, Love & Rhetoric, an historical performance troupe.
Nathan retains a keen appreciation for good bourbon, cats, and old books.