The Sword Through the Centuries

This book on the development of the sword from its earliest forms begins with the Age of Chivalry, during which a knight's main weapons were the lance, axe, and sword - with a shield and armor used for defense. Lively accounts excerpted from such old manuscripts as 'The Ancient Method and Usage of Duels Before the King' provide numerous details on swordplay between knightly opponents. 'A Merrie Pranke of Long Meg of Westminster, and How She Vanquished a Spanish Knight with Her Sword and Buckler,' is another captivating narrative describing the actual use of weapons illustrated and discussed. Limiting his survey largely to swords used in Europe during the past five centuries, and of 'single combats - fought with them,' the author, a noted expert in the field, goes on to describe the two-hand sword, the rapier and its auxiliaries, the dagger and small sword, the broadsword, duelling sword, and the sabre. Also described are points of etiquette in sword fighting and great Japanese sword-makers. Several illustrations of weapons used in the American Civil War are also included. Devotees of the art of fencing and anyone interested in the evolution of hand-held fighting weapons will want to add this book to their collection.