Mabinogi Gold: There is nothing defensive about a Monk's style of fighting
FFXI Jobs: Monks - FFXI Monks are aggressive and highly offensive Melee characters. The FFXI Monks are martial arts specialists who prefer to be unarmed as they relentlessly deal body blows to their foes. Mabinogi Gold Monks use very few weapons.
FFXI Monk Advantages: The ability to seriously thrash an opposition, in quick time, is the Final Fantasy XI Monk's forte. Where the Warrior is a defensive melee fighter, there is nothing defensive about a FFXI Monk's style of fighting.
One great advantage a FFXI Monk has over his opposition is their agility. Because they don't use weapons, the Monks are can deal serious damage very quickly through their 'hand to hand' skills.
FFXI Monk Disadvantages: The FFXI Monk has a decent enough defense, but not quite as strong as that of the Warrior.
Consequently, he can't take as much damage as the latter can absorb. Though the 'parry' skill is useful, to ward off attacks if the Final Fantasy XI Monk is using a weapon.
FFXI Monks in a Party: Final Fantasy XI Monks can rush through the first easy levels fighting solo. However, it is always useful to join up a party when the quests get tougher and the beasts, rougher.