Popular but False Myths about Medieval Swords

Swords, which were the primary weapon of medieval Europe, are the subject of numerous myths and falsehoods. Most of these falsehoods are propagated simply because people don’t do proper research, whether they are writing a short story that includes swords or are preparing a role-playing session for their friends. Then, they pass on the wrong information that they do have and before long, it becomes "fact."

One of the best examples of a myth that has gotten out of hand is that medieval swords were heavy and sometimes weighed in excess of forty pounds. There are even people who consider themselves historical experts that buy into this myth. The truth is, swords from the medieval era were light – most weighed no more than three and a half pounds. It would make them clumsy, bulky weapons.

The swords were very well made, sharp, and easy to handle as long as one knew the basics of swordplay. It was important for sword makers of the day to have the blade balanced well. A fighting weapon needed to be light and quick – something as large as those monstrous forty pound swords that some people believe in would be just about impossible to swing with one hand. Medieval swords were meant to be fast weapons, used to slash at an opponent. Could you imagine a battlefield full of warriors struggling to heft their weapons? Of course not!

Another myth that has somehow come about over the past fifty years or so is that the only people who were permitted to use swords during medieval times were knights and other nobles. That is just untrue. While swords were expensive and sometimes difficult to obtain, there were commoners who not only possessed swords, but also were quite proficient with them. In the 1400s there were guilds and militias of fighters made up of common people who fought with swords. By the time the Renaissance came around, it was a common sight to see men walking around with swords, no matter their social status.

The above are just two of the many common mis perceptions that threaten to bury the reality of swords as they were used in the history of the world. Hopefully, all of the writers, role-players, and Renaissance Fair enthusiasts will take the time to learn more about the real history behind medieval swords, one of the greatest advances in weaponry the world has ever known.

BladeMaster Steve is a staff writer at HeavenlySwords.com, your online retailer and importer of high quality medieval swords.