Medieval Swords: Blades That Shaped History
One of the most iconic images of the Middle Ages is the knight in dazzling armor with a gleaming blade. The medieval sword, a weapon made of materials other than steel, is at the center of that picture. It served as a weapon of combat, a prestige symbol, and an extension of a warrior's prowess, dignity, and heritage. Swords changed as armor, military strategies, and metallurgy improved throughout medieval Europe. Medieval swords, ranging from basic arming swords to enormous two-handed greatswords, were crucial in defining not just combat but also the identity and culture of a warrior class. The Evolution of the Medieval Sword The design of medieval swords changed over ages in response to shifting combat circumstances. Early medieval swords were usually double-edged, straight, and used for slicing; they were influenced by Viking and Roman designs. The steel used to make these early swords was frequently pattern-welded, which combined strength and flexibility. Sword designs change...