From time immemorial, people have come up with more and more sophisticated weapons and ways to kill each other. Let's take a look at unusual views medieval weapons that were invented by our ancestors just a few centuries ago. We read and look further.
Sword crusher. The barbs on either side were intended to grab an opponent's sword and then break with one sharp movement of the hand.
Dagger with two additional blades on the springs, which appeared when you press the button on the handle.
Morning Star - this romantic name meant clubs with a spiked core on a chain.
Frondibola - siege weapon in the form of a lever, on one of which a counterweight weight was fixed, and on the other - a projectile.
With the help of frondibola, a wide variety of shells were thrown, including the corpses of dead animals. They were used to spread infection outside the castle walls.
A serpentine chariot with blades on each wheel slashed enemies to pieces as it passed.
Hunga-munga - throwing weapon peoples of Africa, which is an iron multi-edged knife or a blade of bizarre outlines.
Kaltrop is a medieval variant of anti-personnel spikes that were designed to slow the advance of enemy cavalry.
Kulevrina - firearms for horsemen, ancestor of the musket and cannon.
Greek fire is a combustible mixture used by the Byzantines in naval battles. The composition of the mixture is unknown.
Boiling oil was poured over the heads of the invaders who were trying to enter the fortress. If there was not enough oil, boiling water was used.
Hellburner - medieval weapons mass destruction... These were ships that exploded as they approached enemy ships.
Mancatcher - was used to knock the enemy off the horse. Often, with the help of this weapon, members were taken prisoner royal family to get a ransom for them.
Archimedes' iron paw is a lifting machine, a kind of crane protruding beyond the city wall and equipped with a counterweight. When a Roman ship tried to land near Syracuse, this "paw" grabbed its nose, lifted it and turned it over.
Dead bodies. Looking at the peaceful landscape below, you will not suspect anything wrong. However, in the water is hiding deadly danger- the bodies of the deceased. They were thrown into the water so that enemies, after quenching their thirst, would get sick dangerous diseases even before they come to the walls of the fortress.
Shield-lantern - combined many functions. In addition to the built-in flashlight, it could be equipped with blades, pikes, mittens, etc.
In the Middle Ages, the weapons and equipment of knights and warriors were tirelessly improved. In the 5th century, when the world crossed the threshold of a new way of life, edged weapons and armor remained at the level of development of the ancient era. Only by the beginning of the 9th century there were no signs of primitive warfare.
The development process of medieval weapons
The evolution of weapons in the Middle Ages depended directly on the geographic location of the state. Powers that were close to each other developed in a similar way, and this was reflected in the technology of making weapons. Historians combine them into whole groups.
For example, countries in the territory modern Europe followed the example of West Asian weapons, and the process of development itself was based on the legacy of the Roman Empire. The history of Byzantium largely influenced the evolution of weapons and armor in Western Asia.
Historians divide medieval edged weapons into several types:
- Impact force - club, mace, pole, club, and of course, flail;
- Stabbing weapons with a handle and a blade (daggers, swords, blades, rapiers) and polearms (spears with tips, spears, lances, protazans, spears with teeth);
- Chopping bladed weapon- types of ax for close combat, sword (one-handed and two-handed), scythe, anelas;
- Stabbing-chopping with a handle (saber, saber, scimitar) and pole (halberd, polex, owl);
- Piercing and cutting weapons are mainly represented by different knives.
Features of the production of weapons in the Middle Ages
Mastering new technologies of metal processing, the masters of arms business introduced innovations in the production of weapons. Often, gunsmiths worked on individual orders. This explains big variety melee weapons, their properties and appearance. The transition to conveyor production became possible with the development of manufacturing enterprises. Less attention was paid to the appearance of weapons, the main goal was to achieve effective combat qualities. Large organizations still did not succeed in completely ousting individual edged weapons manufacturing workshops. There have always been workshops for the manufacture of unique types of weapons for defense or offensive. A particular craftsman could be recognized by a typical stamp or markings. Regardless of appearance, weapons of the same type performed the same functions.
It has a fairly simple design: a long blade with a handle, while swords have many shapes and uses. The sword is more comfortable than the ax, which is one of its predecessors. The sword is adapted for inflicting slashing and thrusting blows, as well as for parrying enemy blows. Longer than a dagger and not easily hidden in clothing, the sword is a noble weapon in many cultures. He had a special significance, being at the same time a work of art, a heirloom, a symbol of war, justice, honor, and of course glory.
The sword has the following structure: 
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f. Blade
g. Spearhead
There are many variants of the shape of the blade sections. Usually, the shape of the blade depends on the purpose of the weapon, as well as on the desire to combine rigidity and lightness in the blade. The figure shows some double-edged (positions 1, 2) and single-edged (positions 3, 4) blade shapes.
There are three basic forms of sword blades. Each of them has its own advantages. Straight blade (s) are intended for thrusting. A backward-curved blade (b) inflicts a deep cut wound on impact. A forward curved blade (c) is effective for delivering a slashing blow, especially when it has an expanding and heavy upper part. Civilians, when choosing a sword, were guided mainly by fashion trends. The military, on the other hand, tried to find the perfect blade that combines the same effectiveness in both cutting and thrusting.
Africa and the Middle East
In most of these regions, the sword is a very common weapon, but in Africa it is rare and difficult to date. Most of the swords shown here ended up in Western museums and collectors thanks to travelers in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
1. Double-edged sword, Gabon, West Africa. A thin blade is made of steel, the hilt of the sword is wrapped in brass and copper wire.
2. Takouba, sword of the Tuareg tribe of the Sahara.
3. Flissa, sword of the Kabil tribe, Morocco. Single-edged blade decorated with engraving and inlaid with brass.
4. Kaskara, the straight double-edged sword of the Baghirmi people, Sahara. The style of this sword is close to the Sudanese swords.
5. Double-edged sword of the East African Masai. Rhombic section of the blade, no guard.
6. Shotel, double-edged sword with a double curvature of the blade, Ethiopia. The crescent shape of the sword is designed to defeat the enemy behind his shield.
7. Sudanese sword with a characteristic straight double-edged blade and a cruciform guard.
8. Arab sword, XVIII century. The blade is probably of European origin. The silver hilt of the sword is gilded.
9. Arab sword, Longola, Sudan. The double-edged steel blade is decorated with geometric patterns and the image of a crocodile. The handle of the sword is made of ebony and ivory.
Near East
10. Kilich (fang), Turkey. The specimen shown in the picture has a 15th century blade, and an 18th century hilt. Often at the top, the blade of the keelidge has an elman - an expanded part with a straight blade.
11. Yatagan, classical form, Turkey. A sword with a single-edged blade curved forward. The bone handle has a large pommel, and there is no guard.
12. Scimitar with a silver handle. The blade is decorated with corals. Turkey.
13. Saif, a curved saber with a characteristic pommel. Found wherever the Arabs lived.
14. Checker, Caucasus. Circassian origin, was widely used by the Russian cavalry. the blade of this specimen is dated 1819, Persia.
15. Dagger, Caucasus. The dagger could reach the size of a short sword, one of which is shown here.
16. Shamshir, typical form. Persian with a curved blade and a characteristic hilt.
17. Shamshir with a wavy blade, Persia. The steel handle is decorated with gold inlay.
18. Quaddara. Large dagger. The handle is made of horn. The blade is decorated with etching and gold notching.
Indian subcontinent
The region of India and related areas is rich in a variety of types swords... In India, the world's finest steel blades with luxurious decorations were made. In some cases, it is difficult to give the correct name to some samples of blades, to determine the time and place of their manufacture, so their thorough study is still ahead. Dates shown are for the instances shown only.
- Chora (khyber), a heavy single-edged sword of the Afghan and Pashtun tribes. Afghan-Pakistani borderlands.
- Tulvar (talwar). A sword with a curved blade and a disc-shaped hilt, India. This instance was found in North India, XVII century.
- Tulvar (talvar) with a wide blade. Was the executioner's weapon. This copy is of North India origin, XVIII-XIX centuries.
- Tulwar (Talwar) Punjabi style steel grip with safety bow. Indore, India. End of the 18th century
- Khanda, gold-plated steel handle in "King's Indian" style. Double-edged straight blade. Nepal. XVIII century
- Khanda. The handle is made in the style of "Indian basket" with a branch for gripping with both hands. Marathi people. XVIII century
- Sucking pattah. The handle is made in the style of "Indian basket". Forward curved, reinforced blade with one blade. Central India. XVIII century
- South Indian sword. Steel handle, square wooden pommel. The blade is curved forward. Madras. XVI century
- Sword from the temple of the Nayar people. Brass handle, double-edged steel blade. Thanjavur, South India. XVIII century
- South Indian sword. Steel handle, double-edged wavy blade. Madras. XVIII century
- Pata. Indian sword with a plate gauntlet - a steel guard that protected the hand up to the forearm. Decorated with engraving and gilding. Aud (currently Uttar Pradesh). XVIII century
- Adyar katti of typical shape. A short, heavy blade curved forward. The handle is made of silver. Kurgh, Southwest India.
- Zafar Takeh, India. Attribute of the overlord at the audience. The top of the handle is made in the form of an armrest.
- Firangi ("alien"). This name was used by the Indians for European blades with Indian hilts. Shown here is a Marathi sword with a 17th century German blade.
- A double-edged two-handed sword with hollow iron tops. Central India. XVII century
- Bark. The blade is curved forward, has one blade with a "pulled" apex. Nepal. XVIII century
- Kukri. Long narrow blade. It was widespread in the 19th century. Nepal, circa 1850
- Kukri. Iron hilt, graceful blade. Nepal, circa 19th century
- Kukri. Was in service with the Indian army in World War II. Manufactured by a contractor in North India. 1943 g.
- Ram dao. A sword used for animal sacrifice in Nepal and North India.
Far East
- Tao. Sword of the Kachin tribe, Assam. The specimen shown in the picture shows the most common blade shape known in this region.
- Tao (noklang). Two-handed sword, Khasi people, Assam. The handle of the sword is made of iron, the trim is made of brass.
- Dha. Single-edged sword, Myanmar. The cylindrical hilt of the sword is covered with white metal. Blade inlaid with silver and copper.
- Castane. The sword has a carved wooden handle and a safety steel bow. Decorated with silver and brass inlay. Sri Lanka.
- Single-edged Chinese iron sword. The handle is a blade petiole wrapped with a cord.
- Talibon. Short sword of Filipino Christians. The handle of the sword is made of wood and braided with reeds.
- Barong. Moro short sword, Philippines.
- Mandau (parang ihlang). Sword of the Dayak tribe - bounty hunters, Kalimantan.
- Parang pandit. Sword of the sea dayak tribe, Southeast Asia... The sword has a single-edged blade curved forward.
- Campilan. A single-edged sword of the Moro and Sea Dayak tribes. The handle is made of wood and decorated with carvings.
- Klewang. A sword from the island of Sula-vesi, Indonesia. The sword has a single-edged blade. The handle is made of wood and decorated with carvings.
Europe of the Bronze and Early Iron Ages
The history of the European sword is not so much a process of improving the functionality of the blade, as of changing it under the influence of fashion trends. Swords made of bronze and iron were replaced by steel ones, swords were adapted to new theories of battle, but no innovations led to complete rejection from old forms.
- Short sword. Central Europe, early Bronze Age. The blade and the hilt of the sword are riveted.
- Curved single-edged short sword,Sweden. 1600-1350 biennium BC. The sword is made from a single piece of bronze.
- Homeric bronze sword, Greece. OK. 1300 BC This specimen was found in Mycenae.
- Long one-piece bronze sword, one of the Baltic islands. 1200-1000 BC BC.
- Late Bronze Age sword, Central Europe. 850-650 BC BC.
- Iron sword, Hallstatt culture, Austria. 650-500 biennium BC. The sword handle is made of ivory and amber.
- Iron sword of the Greek hoplites (heavily armed infantry). Greece. Approximately VI century. BC.
- Iron single-edged sword, Spain, circa V-VI centuries BC. Swords of this type were also used in classical Greece.
- Iron sword blade, La Tene culture. Around the VI century. BC. This copy was found in Switzerland.
- An iron sword. Aquileia, Italy. The sword hilt is made of bronze. Around the 3rd century. BC.
- Gaulish iron sword. Department of Aub, France. Anthropomorphic bronze handle. Around the 2nd century. BC.
- Iron sword, Cumbria, England. The sword handle is made of bronze and decorated with enamel. Around the 1st century.
- Gladius. Iron Roman short sword. The beginning of the 1st century.
- Roman gladius of the late type. Pompeii. The edges of the blade are parallel, the point is shortened. End of the 1st century
Europe of the Middle Ages
Throughout the early Middle Ages, the sword was a very valuable weapon, especially in Northern Europe. Many scandinavian swords have richly decorated handles, and an X-ray study of them made it possible to establish a very high quality their welded blades. However, the late medieval sword, despite its significant status knightly arms, often has a simple cruciform shape and a simple iron blade; only the pommel of the sword gave the craftsmen some scope for imagination.
Early medieval swords were forged with wide blades designed to deliver a chopping blow. Since the XIII century. narrow blades designed for thrusting began to spread. It is assumed that this trend was caused by the increased use of armor, which was easier to pierce with a piercing blow, at the joints.
To improve the balance of the sword, a heavy pommel was attached to the end of the handle, as a counterweight to the blade. Top shapes:
- Mushroom
- Shaped as a teapot cover
- American walnut shape
- Disc-shaped
- Wheel shaped
- Triangular
- Fishtail
- Pear-shaped
Viking sword (right) 10th century The handle is wrapped in silver foil with an embossed "braided" ornament, which is shaded with copper and niello. The steel double-edged blade is wide and shallow. This sword was found in one of the Swedish lakes. It is currently housed in the State Historical Museum in Stockholm.
Middle Ages
Malkus or Malchus (Italian malchus) - this is sometimes called Falchion with a strong bevel of the butt, the bevel was necessary to give this sword a piercing property. The origin of this name is interesting. And it comes from the name of Malkus - the character of the New Testament, the slave of the high priest, who participated in the arrest of Jesus Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. All Evangelists report about the servant of the high priest and the cutting off of his ear by the Apostle Peter, but only John the Theologian calls him by the name Malchus (in Latin Malchus). Only Luke reports on the healing of the slave. This episode was portrayed by medieval artists and often (but not always) put a falchion with a beveled butt into Peter's hand.
Detail of the painting "The Arrest of Christ", 1520, Burgundy. At the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Dijon, France. One of the stained glass windows at King's College, Cambridge. Upper detail of the altar of the Church of the Virgin Mary in Krakow. 1477-89 years. Here at St. Petra falchion without bevel, butt is just a quarter sharpened. Interest appeals to the saber from Malkus.
Misericord (French misericorde - knife of mercy) - this is the name of a dagger with a narrow diamond-shaped blade section for penetration between the joints of knightly armor. Known in Western Europe from the 13th century, and in fact is not any special kind of dagger. For penetrating Gothic armor, daggers of the Rondel type and slightly less Bullock are best suited.
Fencing textbooks show several techniques for the effective use of a dagger, as a weapon of murder, it gives odds even to two-handed swords.
hand sword (English Greatsword, Longsword or Bastard, German Langschwert or Anderthalbhänder, French L "épée batarde) - the main distinguishing feature of this type of swords is the long handle of 15-25 cm, for two arms. And the blade is 80- 110 cm Blade width 4.1-3.1 - narrows to the point Weight 1.2 - 2.4 kg (most 1.5 kg.) Appeared in connection with the need to increase the fighting qualities of the sword, which led to lengthening and weighting of the blade.The period of greatest distribution is approximately 1350 to 1550 (but the earliest and late period use in the 13th and 17th centuries). A sling scabbard is required. In English literature, the name Bastard (illegitimate) is often found, which suggests that many swords are difficult to determine if they are one and a half-handed or two-handed.
It is easy to inflict a more serious wound with a long blade, especially when hacked from a horse. Long swords are used for slashing, cutting, and thrusting. For more specific applications one and a half swords you have to change their shape. All parts of the sword are used for offensive purposes, including the pommel and crosspiece. The pommel, located at a considerable distance from the heel of the blade, better balances the sword - therefore, fencing even with one hand does not present any difficulties.
In mentions swords of subtypes XIIa and XIIIa 1250-1350, as predecessors of the late one and a half-handed swords. The names of these two subtypes are the words "great sword" "great sword". Oakeshott distinguishes their one-and-a-half-handed grip and relatively large blade, roughly 90cm (36 inches), which were larger and wider than their contemporary swords. Later, in the late Middle Ages, c. 1350-1550, a wide variety of subtypes of swords arise:
Blade length ≈ 81 cm (32 inches), subtype XVIa (early 14th century).
Blade approx 86 cm (34 in): subtype 18th century (mid 15th to early 16th century).
With an average blade length of 86 (34 inches), ranging from 75 to 100 cm (30 to 38 inches): Type XX (14th and 15th century), subtypes XXa (14th and 15th century).
With a blade length of about 89 cm (35 inches): subtype XVa (late 13th to early 16th century), XVIIa (mid 14th to early 15th century).
The longest. Blade averages 100 cm (39 in) with an average of about 92-110 cm (36 to 42 in): subtypes XVIIIa (mid 14th to early 15th century), XVIIIb (early 15th to mid 16th century), XVIIId (mid 15th to early 16 c), XVIIIe (mid 15th century to early 16th century).
It should be noted that the last XVIII subtype is most often referred to as two-handed swords. Oakeshott does not unequivocally distinguish between one and a half-handed and two-handed swords.
The handle of a knight's sword of the 13th century. Probably the sword belonged to Magister Konrad, Landgrave of Thuringia and Hesse. 1239-1241 German Historic Museum (DHM). Berlin.
Swords from left to right: 1) sec. floor. 14c .; 2) about 1400; 3) lane. floor. 14c .; 4) 14th century German Historic Museum (DHM). Berlin.
"Knight with two sons" 1518-1520. thin Lucas Cranach I. Knight's armor, helmet-armé, decorative shield, and a sword suitable for use with two hands are shown, the pommel of the dagger is visible.
This sword was kept in the courthouse of the Swiss city of Sursee, dated about 1550. The blade is double-edged, 100 cm long, 5.2 cm wide at the heel, without valleys. The handle is covered with wood and braided with leather. The scabbard is wooden, covered with leather, a small brass tip is installed. Full length 136.5 cm. Weight without scabbard 2.535 g, with scabbard 2790 g. It is not clear whether it is two-handed or one and a half-handed.
Pappenheimer sword is a type of battle rapier, characterized by a long thick blade and a very complex handle. The guard consists of a cup made up of two wide petals covering the ricasso and a cross, the front end of which is bent down and the back up, and one (and often the whole system) arch covering the fingers. The one-handed shank of the hilt is topped with a heavy apple fixed
Sword - is a type of cold weapon, they inflicted stabbing, cutting or chopping wounds. Its basic design was uncomplicated and consisted of an oblong, straight blade with a hilt. Distinctive feature weapon is the established minimum length of the blade was about 60 cm. The type of sword presented many variations and depended on time, region, social status.
There is no reliable information about the date of the origin of the first sword. It is believed that a sharpened club made of wood served as its prototype, and the first swords were made of copper. Due to its plasticity, copper was soon replaced by a bronze alloy.
The sword is undoubtedly one of the most authoritative and historically significant weapons of antiquity. It is generally accepted that it symbolizes justice, dignity and courage. Hundreds of folk legends were written about combat battles and knightly duels, and their swords were an integral part. Later, writers, inspired by these legends, created the main characters in their novels in the image and likeness of legends. For example, the story of King Arthur has been published an infinite number of times, and the greatness of his sword has always been the same.
In addition, swords are reflected in religion. The nobility of edged weapons was closely intertwined with spiritual and divine meaning, which was interpreted by each religion and doctrine in its own way. For example, in Buddhist teachings, the sword symbolized wisdom. In Christianity, the interpretation of the "double-edged sword" is directly related to the death of Jesus Christ, and carries the meaning of divine truth and wisdom.
Identifying the sword with a divine symbol, the inhabitants of that time were in awe of the possession of such a weapon and the use of its images. Medieval swords had a cruciform handle in the image of the Christian cross. With such a sword, the rite of knighthood was performed. Also, the image of this weapon found wide application in the field of heraldry.
By the way, in the historical documents that have survived to our time, there is information about the cost of swords. So, the price of one standard implement was equal to the cost of 4 heads of cattle (cows), and if the work was performed by a famous blacksmith, the amount was certainly much higher. A resident of the middle class could hardly afford the costs of this level. High price due to the high cost and rarity of the metals used, in addition, the manufacturing process itself was quite laborious.
The quality of the sword made directly depends on the skill of the blacksmith. His skill lies in the ability to correctly forge a blade from a different alloy of metals, so that as a result, the blade turns out to be even, the weight is light, and the surface itself is perfectly flat. The complex composition of the product created difficulties in mass production... In Europe, they began to produce good swords a large stream only towards the end of the Middle Ages.
The sword can rightfully be called an elite weapon and this is due not only to the factors listed above. Versatility in application and a light weight favorably distinguished the sword against the background of their predecessors (ax, spear).
It is also worth noting that not everyone can wield a blade. Those wishing to become professional fighters have perfected their skills for years in numerous trainings. It is for these reasons that every warrior took pride in the privilege of wielding a sword.
- hilt - a set of components: handles, crosspieces and pommels. Depending on whether the hilt was open or not, the degree of protection of the fingers was determined;
- blade - warhead shotguns with a narrowed end;
- pommel - the top of the tool, made of heavy metal. Served to balance the weight, sometimes decorated with additional elements;
- handle - an element made of wood or metal for holding a sword. Often, the surface was roughened to prevent the weapon from slipping out of the hands;
- guard or cross - arose during the development of the art of fencing and made it possible to secure hands in battle;
- blade - the cutting edge of the blade;
- sharp point.
General demarcation of swords
Concerning the topic of identifying varieties this weapon, one cannot ignore the scientific works of the researcher from England E. Oakeshott. It was he who introduced the classification of swords and grouped them by time periods. In the general concept, two groups of types of medieval and later swords can be distinguished:
By lenght:
- a short sword - a blade of 60-70 cm, fighters wore it on the belt on the left side. Suitable for close range combat;
- a long sword - its wedge was 70-90 cm, in battles, as a rule, it was carried in the hands. It was versatile for ground and mounted fights;
- cavalry sword. Blade length over 90 cm.
By implement weight and handle type:
- one-handed sword - the lightest, about 0.7 - 1.5 kg, which makes it possible to operate with one hand;
- bastard sword or "sword-bastard" - the length of the handle did not allow to place both hands freely, hence the name. Weight about 1.4 kg, size 90 cm;
- a two-handed sword - its weight was from 3.5 to 6 kg, and its length reached 140 cm.
Despite the general classification of species, the sword is more of an individual weapon and was created taking into account the physiological characteristics of the war. In this connection, it is impossible to meet two identical swords.
The weapon was always kept in a sheath and attached to a saddle or belt.
The formation of the sword in the era of antiquity
V early era Antiquity, bronze steel was actively used in the creation of blades. This alloy, despite its ductility, is distinguished by its strength. Swords of this time are notable for the following: bronze blades were made by casting, which made it possible to create various forms... In some cases, for greater stability, stiffeners were added to the blades. In addition, copper does not corrode, so many archaeological finds retain their beautiful appearance to this day.
For example, in the Adyghe Republic, during the excavation of one of the mounds, a sword was found, which is considered one of the most ancient and dates back to 4 thousand BC. According to ancient customs, during burial, together with the deceased, his personal valuables were placed in the mound.
The most famous swords of that time:
- the sword of the hoplites and Macedonians "Xyphos" - a short weapon with a leaf-shaped wedge;
- the Roman weapon "Gladius" - a 60 cm blade with a massive pommel, effectively delivering stabbing and chopping blows;
- ancient German "Spata" - 80-100 cm, weight up to 2 kg. The one-armed sword was widely popular with the Germanic barbarians. As a result of the migration of peoples, it became popular in Gaul and served as the prototype for many modern swords.
- "Akinak" - short piercing-cutting weapon, weighing about 2 kg. The cross is made in a heart-shaped form, the pommel is in the form of a crescent. It is recognized as an element of the Scythian culture.
The heyday of the sword in the Middle Ages
The great migration of peoples, the seizure of Roman lands by the Goths and vandals, the raids of the barbarians, the inability of the authorities to manage a huge territory, the demographic crisis - all this ultimately provoked the fall of the Roman Empire at the end of the 5th century and marked the formation of a new stage in World history... Later the humanists gave it the name "Middle Ages".
Historians characterize this period as "dark times" for Europe. Decline of trade, political crisis, the depletion of land fertility invariably led to fragmentation and endless internecine strife. It can be assumed that it was these reasons that contributed to the flourishing of edged weapons. Of particular note is the use of swords. Barbarians Germanic origin being in numerical superiority, they brought with them "Spata" swords and contributed to their popularization. Such swords existed until the 16th century, already later, swords came to replace them.
The diversity of cultures and the disunity of the settlers have significantly reduced the level and quality of martial art. Now battles took place more and more often in open areas without the use of any defensive tactics.
If in the usual sense, combat equipment Since the war consisted of equipment and weapons, then in the early Middle Ages, the impoverishment of handicrafts led to a shortage of resources. With swords and rather meager equipment (chain mail or plate armor) were owned only by elite troops. According to historical data, at that time there was practically no armor.
A kind of sword in the era of the Great Invasions
The different languages, culture and religious views of Germanic settlers and local Romans invariably led to negative relationships... The Romano-Germanic conflict strengthened its position and contributed to new invasions of the Roman lands from France and Germany. The list of those wishing to take possession of the lands of Gaul, alas, does not end there.
The invasion of the Huns into Europe led by Attila was catastrophically destructive. It was the Huns who laid the foundation for the "Great Migration of Peoples", ruthlessly crushing the lands one after another, the Asian nomads reached the Roman lands. Having conquered Germany, France, Northern Italy on their way, the Huns also broke through the defenses in some parts of the Roman border. The Romans, in turn, were forced to unite with other peoples to maintain their defenses. For example, some lands were given to the barbarians peacefully in exchange for the obligation to guard the borders of Gaul.
In history, this period was called the "Era of the Great Invasions." Each new ruler tried to make his own contribution to the modifications and improvements of the sword, consider the most popular types:
The royal dynasty of the Merovingians began their reign in the 5th century and ended in the 8th century, when the last representative of this family was overthrown from the throne. It was the descendants of the great Merovingian family who made a significant contribution to the expansion of the territory of France. From the middle of the 5th century, the king of the French state (later France) - Clovis I led an active policy of conquest in Gaul. Great importance was attached to the quality of the tools, which is why swords of the Merovingian type arose. The weapon evolved in several stages, the 1st version, like the ancient German spatha, did not have a point, the tip of the blade was rough or rounded. Often, such swords were lavishly decorated and were available only to the upper classes of society.
Main characteristics of the Merovingian weapon:
- blade length -75 cm, weight about 2 kg;
- the sword was forged from different grades of steel;
- a wide shaft of shallow depth passed on both sides of the sword and ended 3 cm from the point. The appearance of the fuller in the sword greatly lightened its weight;
- the handle of the sword is short and with a heavy pommel;
- the width of the blade almost did not narrow, which made it possible to inflict cutting and chopping blows.
The well-known King Arthur existed in this era, and his sword, which possesses incredible power, was Merovingian.
The Vikings of the noble family of the Carolingians came to power in the 8th century, overthrowing the last descendants of the Merovingian dynasty from the throne, thereby initiating the "Viking era", otherwise called the "Era of Carolingian rule" in France. Many legends were composed about the rulers of the Carolingian dynasty at that time, and some of them are known to us to this day (for example, Pepin, Charlemagne, Louis I). In folk legends, the swords of kings are also most often mentioned. I would like to tell one of the stories that is dedicated to the formation of the first king Pepin the Short of the Carolingians:
Being short, Pepin got the name "Short". He became famous as a brave soldier, but people considered him unworthy to take the place of a king because of his height. Once, Pepin ordered to bring a hungry lion and a huge bull. Of course, the predator grabbed the bull's neck. Future king invited his scoffers to kill the lion and free the bull. People did not dare to approach the fierce animal. Then Pepin took out his sword and cut off the heads of both animals in one fell swoop. Thus, he proved his right to the throne and won the respect of the people of France. So Pepin was proclaimed king, overthrowing the last Merovingian from the throne.
Charles the Great became a follower of Pepin, under whom the Franco state received the status of an Empire.
Wise politicians famous family continued to strengthen the position of France, which naturally affected the weapon. The Carolingian sword, otherwise known as the Viking sword, was famous for the following:
- blade length 63-91 cm;
- one-handed sword weighing no more than 1.5 kg;
- lobed or triangular pommel;
- a sharp blade and a sharpened point for delivering chopping blows;
- deep double-sided dol;
- short handle with a small guard.
The Carolingian was mainly used in foot battles. With grace and light weight, it was a weapon for the noble representatives of the Vikings (priests or tribal leaders). Common Vikings used spears and axes more often.
Also, the Carolingian Empire imported its swords into Kievan Rus and contributed to a significant expansion of the weapons arsenal.
Perfecting the sword on everyone historical stage, played a significant role in the formation of a knightly weapon.
3. Romanovsky (knightly) sword
Hugo Capet (aka Karl Martell) is an abbot, the first king, elected as a result of the death of the last descendant of the Carolgins in the 8th century. It was he who was the progenitor of a large dynasty of kings in the Frankish Empire - the Capetian. This period marked by many reforms, for example, the formation of feudal relations, a clear hierarchy appeared in the structure of the government. New changes have spawned conflicts as well. At this time, the largest religious wars took place, which began with the First Crusade.
During the reign of the Capetian dynasty (approximately the beginning - the middle of the 6th century), the formation of the knightly sword, also known as "sword for arms" or "Romanesque", began. Such a sword was a modified version of the Carolingian, and met the following characteristics:
- blade length was 90-95 cm;
- significant narrowing of the edges, which made it possible to deliver more accurate strikes;
- reduced monolithic top with a rounded edge;
- a curved handle measuring 9-12 cm, this length made it possible for the knight to protect his hand in a battle;
It is worth noting that the listed changes in the components of the hilt made it possible to conduct a battle in a horseback position.
Popular knightly swords:
Gradually, the weapon evolved from one-handed spat to two-handed swords... The peak of the popularity of wielding a sword with two hands fell on the era of chivalry. Consider the most famous types:
"" - a wavy sword with a flaming blade, a kind of symbiosis of a sword and a saber. Length 1.5 meters, weight 3-4 kg. He was distinguished by special cruelty, because with his bends he struck deeply and left lacerated wounds for a long time. The church protested against Flamberg, but nevertheless it was actively used by German mercenaries.
Chivalry as a privilege
Chivalry arose in the 8th century and is closely connected with the emergence of the feudal system, when foot warriors were retrained into cavalry troops. Under religious influence, chivalry was a titled noble status. Being a good strategist, Karl Martell, distributed church lands to his compatriots, and in return demanded horse service or payment of tax. In general, the vassalage system was rigidly and hierarchically structured. In addition, obtaining such land limited human freedom. Those who wanted to be free received the status of a vassal and joined the ranks of the army. Thus, the knightly cavalry was assembled for the Crusade.
To obtain the desired title, the future knight began training from an early age. By about seven years, his warriors to master and improve the technique of fighting, by the age of twelve he became a squire, and a decision was made by the age of majority. The boy could be kept in the same rank or knighted. In any case, serving the knightly business was equated with freedom.
Knight's military equipment
The progressive development of handicraft affairs contributed not only to the modernization of guns, but also to military equipment in general, now such attributes as a protective shield and armor have appeared.
Simple warriors wore shells made of leather for protection, and noble troops used chain mail or leather shells with metal inserts. The helmet was designed according to the same principle.
The shield was created from durable wood 2 cm thick, covered with leather on top. Metal was sometimes used to enhance protection.
Myths and speculations about swords
The history of the existence of such a weapon is full of mysteries, which is probably why it remains interesting today. Over the course of many centuries, many legends have formed around the sword, some we will try to refute:
Myth 1. Ancient sword weighed 10-15 kg and was used in battle as a club, leaving opponents shell-shocked. Such a statement has no basis. The weight ranged from about 600 g to 1.4 kg.
Myth 2. The sword lacked a sharp edge, and like a chisel, it could break through protective equipment. Historical documents contain information that the swords were so sharp that they cut the victim in two.
Myth 3. Poor quality steel was used for European swords. Historians have established that since ancient times, Europeans have successfully used various metal alloys.
Myth 4. Fencing was not developed in Europe. A variety of sources say the opposite: for many centuries, Europeans have worked on tactics of combat, in addition, most of the techniques are focused on the swordsman's agility and speed, rather than brute strength.
In spite of different versions the emergence and development of the sword in history, one fact remains unchanged - its rich cultural heritage and historically significant.
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