Dueling plays an important role in Utena, it helps determine who will "revolutionize the world" by possesing the Rose Bride (Anthy). Other Duelists challenge the current winner to fight for Anthy. In the beginning, the Duelists consisted of the Studen Council alone, then Utena came along. Even further into the series, previous Duelist duel for the bride once more, also with a wider variety as well. Most people have their own specific way of fighting style as well. Here are a few
| Duelists | Style
| Tenjou Utena | Freestyle/Dios?
| Kiryuu Touga | Kendo
| Arisugawa Juri | Sabre fencing
| Kaoru Miki | Epee fencing
| Kyouichi Saionji | Kendo
| Kiryuu Nanami | Old style fencing/Kendo
| Ruka | Sabre fencing | |
|---|
When practicing, a shinai, or wooden sword is used, like the one Utena used in her first duel against Saionji. The shinai is made of four lengths of seasoned bamboo bound by waxed cord. This sometimes may be called a bokken. We all learned the lesson that although a bokken may look cool, it doesn't stand a chance against Dios, unless you're an idiot like Saionji and let your gaurd down, ~_^
Nowadays, it is illegal to use real swords in Kendo duels because you can kill or seriously maim someone, which is illegal.
European Fencing
During the Middle Ages, the sword was an excellent way to crack through armour in battles. But as a downside, the sword was heavy and clumsy to yield. Combined with crude and weighty armour, it was relatively simple to be cut down while preparing to fight.
In the 16th century, the rapier, a lighter form of sword was introduced in Italy. It was much better than its hulkish ancestor, however, its form was built too much in length. A dagger was held in the other hand, to aid in attacks. This type of fighting is used by Nanami and Tsuwabuki. The dagger was later replaced by a cloak and then nothing. Having a free hand made it much easier for one to step away from an attack.
Fencing became a gentleman's sport, and was used to settle arguements, I wish things were still solved like this but oh well. Unfortunately, it started out as a fight to the death sport. Later, it was just fought until blood was drawn, and then modified to hit counts.