2023, Volume 19
Wrestling fight - between tradition, sport and spectacle
Artur Kruszewski1
1Department of Individual Sports, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
Author for correspondence: Artur Kruszewski; Department of Individual Sports, Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; email: artur.kruszewski@awf.edu.pl
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Abstract
In ancient times, two forms of hand-to-hand combat were cultivated in parallel only partly with one compatible goal - a spectacle to attract the attention of crowds. Healthy emotions and positive social role models were provided by fights based on relatively mild methods and means of achieving a wrestling-type victory. In contrast, boxing and pankratnion were bloody spectacles that contradicted the ideals of wrestling-type fights.
While in Western culture wrestling forms have been forgotten for nearly 1,500 years, in Far Eastern culture they have guided the development of successive generations by combining physical development with the embodiment of wisdom. This practice, through the unique pupil-master bond, is combined with a duty of respect for the elderly that is also evident today.
The revival of the Modern Games in the 19th century and the creation of the Olympic Charter in 1914 brought about a renewal of the Olympic idea, based on thoughts developed by the ancient Greek philosophers. This gave a new impetus to the development of the society of Western culture; respect for the opponent, the values of equal opportunity and fair play were to contribute to mutual respect for all mankind..
In the early days, this development was in line with the idea of the rediscovered values of the development of spirit and body, goodness and wisdom. Now, once again (as in the era of the Roman Games), widespread social prosperity, the pursuit of profit by satisfying the shallow needs of society in the age of the internet and televised spectacle have led to the promotion of sham and neo gladiatorialism. Once again, virtues such as moderation and frugality have been supplanted by greed and addiction to pleasure. We are becoming a society of free time, consumption, fun and lack of morals.
Key words: pankration, Olympic Movement, kalokagathia, innovative agonology, fair play, agon