Digest

This episode of Endless Thread delves into the drama unfolding within the online community of historical European martial arts (HEMA). The episode begins with a discussion about the popularity of HEMA on the internet, with creators like Metatron, Skola Gladiatora, Shadiversity, and Scala Grim gaining significant followings. However, the episode quickly shifts to a recent controversy that has divided the community. A Reddit post from a user named Gene Reddit123 highlights the growing negativity and accusations of bad faith reporting among HEMA YouTubers. The episode then focuses on the public falling out between Sir Matt Easton (Scala Gladiatoria) and other creators like Shadiversity and Metatron. Sir Matt Easton, known for his historical accuracy and inclusivity, publicly criticized these creators for their promotion of racist, homophobic, and alt-right views. This led to a significant schism within the community, with some creators losing subscribers and revenue due to the controversy. The episode concludes with a discussion about the importance of maintaining safe spaces online, even amidst disagreements, and the need to avoid letting political and cultural differences divide communities that share a common interest.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the topic of historical European martial arts (HEMA) and its growing popularity on the internet. The hosts discuss the various creators and channels dedicated to HEMA, including Metatron, Skola Gladiatora, Shadiversity, and Scala Grim.

00:03:25

The HEMA Drama

This Chapter dives into the recent controversy that has divided the HEMA community. A Reddit post from a user named Gene Reddit123 highlights the growing negativity and accusations of bad faith reporting among HEMA YouTubers. The hosts discuss the specific accusations against creators like Shadiversity and Metatron, including promoting racist, homophobic, and alt-right views.

00:11:21

Sir Matt Easton's Open Letter

This Chapter focuses on Sir Matt Easton's open letter, which addressed the controversy and publicly criticized the problematic views of some HEMA creators. The hosts read excerpts from the letter, highlighting Easton's stance against bigotry and his commitment to inclusivity. They also discuss the impact of the letter on the HEMA community and the subsequent fallout between creators.

00:16:47

The Importance of Safe Spaces

This Chapter concludes the episode with a discussion about the importance of maintaining safe spaces online, even amidst disagreements. The hosts emphasize the need to avoid letting political and cultural differences divide communities that share a common interest. They also reflect on the irony of a community dedicated to historical sword fighting being torn apart by modern-day controversies.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is historical European martial arts (HEMA) and why is it gaining popularity online?

  HEMA is a modern revival of historical European martial arts, focusing on the reconstruction and practice of fighting techniques from medieval and Renaissance Europe. It encompasses a wide range of weapons and fighting styles, including swordsmanship, dagger fighting, and unarmed combat. HEMA is gaining popularity online due to its historical significance, its practical application, and its growing community of enthusiasts.

• What is the recent controversy that has divided the HEMA community?

  A recent controversy has erupted within the HEMA community, with accusations of racism, homophobia, and alt-right political rants being leveled against some prominent YouTubers. This has led to a public falling out between creators like Shadiversity and Sir Matt Easton, who has publicly criticized these creators for their views.

• What is Sir Matt Easton's stance on the controversy and what actions has he taken?

  Sir Matt Easton, known for his historical accuracy and inclusivity, has publicly criticized other HEMA creators for promoting bigotry. He wrote an open letter on Facebook condemning these views and stating his commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space within the community. This has led to a significant schism within the HEMA community, with some creators losing subscribers and revenue due to the controversy.

• What are the implications of this controversy for the future of the HEMA community?

  The controversy highlights the challenges of maintaining a safe and inclusive space within online communities, even those dedicated to shared interests. It raises concerns about the infiltration of harmful ideologies into online spaces and the need for creators and platforms to actively combat bigotry and promote inclusivity.

• What lessons can be learned from this controversy about the importance of online communities?

  This controversy underscores the importance of fostering a sense of community and inclusivity online. It highlights the need for creators and platforms to actively combat bigotry and promote respectful dialogue, even amidst disagreements. It also emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where individuals can engage with their shared interests without fear of harassment or discrimination.

Show Notes