In: Root » Arts and entertainment » People and humanities
The middle ages were the time of the renaissance, chivalry an era of unrivaled history. The most powerful kingdoms of the world were pitted against one another in an unending procession of wars, intrigues and conquests. But from this era came not only the beauty and romance of the medieval period but the many medieval swords that made this epic in history so memorable. Because of Europe’s unique history, and compressed cultural distinctions from the many powerful kingdoms of that time, spanning centuries, there are many selections of medieval swords to choose from. The medieval swords were many. They varied from the incredibly long Zwëihander from Germany to the more recognizable Claymore sword, depicted in movies with its unique hilt down to the short dirk or Scottish dagger. These medieval swords are collectors-items; weapons from centuries gone by that give an earthy and anchored sense of history to any room in the home. The medieval sword emanates a rustic appeal when displayed, and reminds us the conflicts of history and ground us in our past. The chosen medieval sword becomes an heirloom, and source of beauty in its’ antiquity. Some people simply want a distinguishing feature to display prominently over perhaps a fireplace or to decorate and bring depth to an office or den. Others are more voracious to collect any and all swords and spend years and fortunes to collect these weapons. They are kept in display cases, or simply tucked away reverently in a vault to be viewed with awe in a quiet moment of reflection. Still there are some aficionados that have taken their fervor for swords to a whole new level and participate regularly in events and fairs that simulate the medieval tournaments of old. In these tournaments, swords are used in exercises that are as close to combat as one can get. Participants enjoy the camaraderie, chivalry, and time away from the mundane; and certainly wielding a sword over three feet long, and trying to bash someone over the head with it, would be about as far from the mundane as one could get. These tournaments also bring out the artisans and walking through their shops is a wonderful way to relive history, and learn so much to help one appreciate a time gone by and gain a perspective that makes life more colorful and vibrant. The swords used in the tournaments are different than what are termed ‘display’ swords. These swords are referred to as battle ready and are made with the intent to clash steel on steel in a friendly-combative display of swordsmanship. Display swords are simply made to achieve a particular look, whereas the battle-ready swords are designed with the longevity of the sword in mind in a battle situation. This requires that the sword uses different metals to accommodate the need for a hard blade that can hold an edge, but soft enough so as to not to be too brittle and shatter upon impact. The weight is also a consideration and is significantly different than those swords meant for display only. A discussion of what goes into making a sword is forthcoming. The medieval weapon is truly a work of art, not simply because of it’s’ hilt, blade or method of construction, but the medieval sword reminds us of our past. They remind us of ancestors and perhaps a relative from years gone by in a land far away, fighting with all the energy he possessed for a cause, a country, a family. Fleeting are the possessions of today, priceless and everlasting are the medieval swords of the past that will define our tomorrows. For more information on different swords and their history, visit www.all-swords.com today.
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