Category Archives: Humour
The Umbrella: a Misunderstood Weapon
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Sunday, 17th May 2009 This humourous article, written and illustrated by J.F. Sullivan, originally appeared in “The Ludgate Monthly” of 1897, just a few years before E.W. Barton-Wright introduced Bartitsu to London. No … Continue reading
The Mysteries of the Embok Kwai (1900-1902)
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Saturday, 4th March 2017 “… he was initiated into the Order of the Embok Kwai, the sole purpose of which is to teach, perpetuate and protect the secrets of jiu-jitsu.” – The Philadelphia Inquirer, 1st … Continue reading
Terence Hill Wields a Mean Cane
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Sunday, 13th May 2018 Readers of a certain vintage may fondly recall the Terence Hill/Bud Spencer buddy comedies of the 1970s, which were best known for their paper-thin plots and gleefully inventive fight … Continue reading
A Happy Holiday Season
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Saturday, 24th December 2011 In the same spirit, we offer what is possibly the only historical example of Bartitsu poetry – from the Western Times newspaper, Thursday 22nd of August, 1901:
“Waylaid by a Ruffian!”
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Sunday, 19th August 2012 A cautionary tale of urban maleficence. Don’t let this happen to you! Ladies and gentlemen alike are invited to arm themselves against the tide of ruffianism by attending the … Continue reading
… Scheiße …
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Tuesday, 4th September 2012 “Not the smartest technique, but the effect is clearly visible”. A funny moment from Bartitsu training at the Alte Kampfkunst school in Wuppertal, Germany.
A Gentlemanly Disagreement
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Saturday, 24th November 2012
“Entirely Due to Ignorance” (1905)
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Sunday, 25th November 2012 Two skeptical view on the virtues of jiu-jitsu, courtesy of the Auckland Star. From 1 July, 1905: “Yes,” said little Perkins, I’ve learned jiu-jitsu.” “Have you now,” said an … Continue reading
Keep Calm …
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Monday, 4th March 2013
“Une interpellation ou le Jiu-Jitsu” (circa 1907)
Originally published on the Bartitsu.org site on Sunday, 14th April 2013 A French cartoon warns of what might happen if the jiujitsu craze is taken up by members of the legal profession.