We're supposed to kick every butt except final boss. To manage this more easily, we're supposed to first farm achievements in Ironman mode, you can visit wiki if you need a guide to getting each achievement. Achievements give points to get more starting stats, perks, food, gold.
When I want to beat the hell out of everything, I create my character as Thief with Agility 12, Strength 4, Endurance 5, Perception 5. Each perk point I use only to raise stats. I also steal or buy good weapon and shield from Blacksmith, stat raising gear in Town of Monsters, better armor.
In fights I use Block to tank with shields when it's not safe to attack. Then I attack with simple moves like Spring Attack, Careful Attack or Overrun. I also keep in mind that even when you attack, you have the defence levels of your skills. Even though there's more to the combat, that's the basic way to win.