A Guide to Medieval Swords

Swords of Western descent

During the early ages of western culture, very few had the pleasure of a peaceful society.  So new weapons were a must if people were to survive.  Among the most dominant conquerers and feared cultures in western history were the romans the vikings and other cultures. 

The Gladius and Spatha

Possibly the most feared and ingenious sword in western culture.  It was first created by the celtic, who possibly saught a weapon easily accesible and light, but deadly and strong.  The romans seeing the power in this new weapon,  seized upon it and adopted it to their warfare.  It is still a mystery on exactly when the romans adopted this weapon.  It is a double-edged straight dagger like sword.  It was very versatile as it could be used as a very effective stabbing weapon, but could also even be used as a slashing weapon, such as slashing at the kneecaps or neck if possible. The spatha was later taken in place of the Gladius.  The spatha is a long sword with a sharp point at the end developed for both stabbing and slashing.  This also was developed by the celtics.  It was originally designed for cavalry use and was only adopted by the romans by the end of the second century.  It is possible it evolved into the modern swords of the high middle ages, but it is hard to connect with these later swords. 

The long sword

During the late middle ages and renaissance the long sword became very popularized and was the choice weapon for many.  It was able to be adapted to be used by one or two hands.  It was designed as the pinnacle of offensive attack of its kind.  All parts were adapted for combat including the crossguard and pommel.  It was not a stabbing weapon and was used for thrusting, slashing, and cutting.  The term “greatsword” is also used to refer to longswords in general.

The Zweihänder

The zweihander was a sword mainly used during the renaissance and can be considered the firstwestern two-handed sword.  It originated in Germany and gained great popularity for it gave men a great advantage against pikemen and spearmen.  The swords usually contained a large hilt with a lesser guard half way down the pommel, this could be implemented so as to shorten the grip and use them similar to pikes to repell cavalry charges. The earliest versions were thought to be used to smash the pikes then go after the pikemen themselves.  There are questions to whether it is represented correctly however, for some reports show them being implemented more as long swords.   

Conclusion

These were some of the first and most effective swords of the pre-modern age.  They allowed for great tactical battles and for the first beginnings of our modern day civilizations.  Warfare while bloody and mournful, has played a part in our culture as well.  Hope you enjoyed the tour and guide.  And remember, there’s always more to something than it may seem.