When in a swordfight what does it mean when you raise the sword in front of your face before fighting?

Question

When in a swordfight what does it mean when you raise the sword in front of your face before fighting?

Answer 1

It is much like a bow; saluting and giving respect to your opponent.

Answer 2

if you mean raising it sideways so the crossguard is across your face then its just movie nonsense i believe, I've studied WMA (western martial arts) for many years and I've never seen any significance, granted, I study from a martial arts point of view, not a historical one- although you do pick up quite a bit about history because of the nature of the study of WMA has you looking through ancient fechtbooks. and I'm sure anyone involved in studying it has some interest in history no matter how passing.

if you mean raising it in a threatening manner, or holding it out in front of your body that is likely the Pflung or plow guard position.

it is one of the main guards which you can choose to hold your sword during a fight.

Answer 3

It's definitely a salute.