How did the French school of fencing emphasize strategy and form?

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1992 Olympics women's foil event — fencing Giovanna Trillini (rear) of Italy successfully defending her world champion foil title against Wang Huifeng of China at the 1992 Olympics.

The French school of fencing was characterized by its academic approach, which prioritized rigorous strategy and precise form. To facilitate this, the school adopted specific conventions and rules to standardize swordplay.1

Key elements of this development included:

Technical Refinement: The French style utilized the light court sword, which allowed for a wide range of offensive and defensive movements that were not possible with heavier weapons. Defense was achieved by using the blade itself to parry, rather than relying on a secondary tool like a dagger or cloak.1
Educational Tools: The foil was introduced as a practice weapon to create a safe training environment, while the development of the fencing mask in the 18th century further enhanced safety.1
Institutionalized Practice: Fencing was taught within salles (schools), where the adherence to set rules and conventions transformed the practice into a highly stylized and controlled art form.1

By the mid-18th century, this emphasis on technique and theory had elevated fencing to its peak, eventually transitioning the practice from a method of combat into the modern sport of fencing.1