The Excalibur sword is a cornerstone of Middle Age lore, but few people know the true story behind the blade. Sure, we’ve seen “Wart” pull the sword from the stone in the classic Disney cartoon, but what’s the real legend behind the quasi-mythical blade? In fact, some people debate if the Sword in the Stone and Excalibur are even the same weapon.
According to legend, Excalibur is the blade that King Arthur used in battle. And in some legends, the sword wields magical powers. There are dozens of versions and variations of the tale; you are basically left to your own devices to cater the story in whatever way you please. Personally, I prefer the grandiose version, where Arthur pulls mighty Excalibur from the stone, leading to his staunch defense against the Saxon forces.
Today we think of dragons as abstract mythical creatures - hardly a pressing concern when real dangers exist around every corner. In the Middle Ages, however, myth and superstition were as good as reality. People had a tendency to believe whatever they heard, no matter how fantastical the story might be. When Crusaders returned to England from their exploits in the Holy Land, they brought with them a whole new brand of tales.
They claimed that in ancient times England had been a dangerous place where dragons roamed free. By the time St. George came on the scene, all of the dragons save one had been slain. Still the kingdom was living in fear of the last remaining dragon, and George set out in with his medieval weapons and armor to vanquish it. When he did, he was celebrated as a hero. Even though none of this ever happened, people were uneducated and gullible during the Middle Ages.
When many of us think of Roman gladiators, we immediately revert to the glorified role these figures play in Hollywood movies. The truth of the matter, however, is that the life of a gladiator was not as glamorous as the films depict, and most of the warriors met an early death. In a recent NPR podcast there was a story highlighting a new archeological discovery: a massive burial site for Roman gladiators in Northern England. (Gladiators used to go on tour).
Although they can’t be certain the burial site was exclusively for Rancient roman swordsoman gladiators, several signs seem point to that conclusion. One arm on each of the skeletons had much more muscle than the other, which is probably due to the constant swinging and training with ancient Roman swords. There is evidence of a lion or tiger bite on one of the soldiers, both of which are foreign to the area and were used in gladiator battles. Finally, a hammer had damaged many of the skulls, a tactic used to disorient the gladiators.
If you are pressed for money like a lot of us are and would like to become involved with a reenactment group or start a collection of historical weapons, why not consider buying a dirk, main gauche or dagger? These types of historical weapons sell for much less than a true museum replica sword or a first quality battle ready sword.
These smaller dirks, and daggers sell for sometimes well under a $100.00. If the blade is made by a reputable manufacturer such as Windlass or CAS/Hanwei, you can be assured of getting a quality weapon that is historically accurate and accepted by reenactment societies. Also, if you are a collector or just interested in a historical costume sword, Denix (the safe weapon-cannot be sharpened), Art Gladius or Armaduras manufactures replica pieces for just that purpose.
The dirk and sgian dubh are most closely associated with the Scots. You can purchase a dirk now and later on add the sword to your collection as both were employed by the Scottish warrior in sword fighting. If you are a fan of the Renaissance, the Renaissance dagger or main gauche was used with the rapier. Even the Vikings used a dagger or scramasax.
Don’t let finances hold you back from pursuing your historical hobby. Strap on a dagger and head to your reenactment or fair!
The Middle Ages were one of the darkest periods in world history - rife with disease, poverty and human cruelty. The previously enlightened civilizations of Rome and Constantinople—and their legendary armies of soldiers in Roman armor—had fallen victim to the bubonic plague, rampaging barbarian hordes and dangerous superstition. Few people could be said to enjoy life during this era: kings and land barons had it pretty good, but what about all the illiterate peasants forced to grind out a subsistence lifestyle?
Monks and other members of the clergy were often the only ones afforded a chance to learn. Of all the people alive in Europe between 700 and 1100 AD, most were unable to read and write. Monks and some enlightened kings were the rare exception, and they kept the light of logic and reason burning for future generations.
When most people think of the Renaissance, they contemplate the reemergence of the arts, literature and intellectual pursuits. And while these elements were certainly at the core of the Renaissance, war was still commonplace. To that end, a variety of armor and weaponry emerged during this era.
Although all of these innovations are now antiquated, they still can serve as unique décor items. A helmet or suit of armor is the perfect accent piece for a den or home library. Simple pieces, such as a Renaissance dagger our doublet, can be placed upon a mantle or as an accent piece on a coffee table.
Was Robin Hood simply a legend that was imagined and inspired by a class who was so suppressed in the Medieval times that they brought to life a “Santa Claus” to give them a small ray of hope or was there such a person who stole from the rich to give to the poor? History gives very little solid information to support the notion that Robin Hood really lived. However, in the literature of this age, there is much written about this inspiring figure. One of the first references was from a religious allegory, written by William Langdon. Here is the reference:
“Quoting the character, Sloth: “I kan noght parfitly my Paternoster as the preest it syngeth, But I kan rymes of Robyn hood and Randolf Erl of Chestre.” which J. C. Holt, in his 1989 revision of Robin Hood, translates as, “I do not know my paternoster perfectly as the priest sings it, But I know rhymes of Robin Hood and Randolph, earl of Chester.” As can be readily determined “Sloth” is one of the deadly sins. This was his confession to the priest and obviously knowing the rhymes of Robin Hood was considered a “slothful” use of time.
Another relevant reference to the name, “Robin Hood”, is from court records and reads as follows:
“The earliest contender is one Robert Hod, described as a fugitive, who is mentioned in the York assizes record of 1226: his goods were being confiscated because he owed money to St. Peter’s of York (Owen, 1936). The debt is not unlike that of Sir Richard in the Gest and certainly consistent with the fierce hostility toward abbeys and rich churchmen through the whole myth. A slightly later reference speaks of William Le Fevre, son of a smith, who was indicted at Reading for larceny in 1261 (Crook, 1984). Nothing very surprising about that, except that in the following year there is another reference to him, and now he is called William Robehod, as if that surname has become appropriate to his condition as a fugitive from justice. ”
If you are interested in pursuing the literary references for Robin Hood. The following is an excellent resource:
http://www.lib.rochester.edu/camelot/rh/rhhome.htm
Whether Robin Hood truly existed is not relevant, because the legend was a significant symbol in Medieval Europe, and still applies in our modern day. It is a story of a struggle between ordinary men against powerful and often evil forces in society. It also relates a story of a band of common men who attempted to assist the unfortunate around them. These circumstances still apply today.
If Robin Hood was a real character, there are several facts that can be determined about him. He lived in Medieval times when the Pope encouraged all men to accept the Crusader cross and travel to the Middle East to free the Holy Land from its Moslem captors. The myth of Robin Hood is tied to the reign of Richard I who was called “the Lionheart.” Richard did in fact accept the cross and transported a large force to recapture Jerusalem. Legend relates that Robin attempted to save the absent crusading king’s crown from his ruthless brother, John Lackland. History does support the information that John was not a very efficient ruler or neither was he adept at war as was his older brother, Richard. John’s Mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, did not intially think very much of her youngest son. She left him in the hands of his father, Henry II and spent most of her time in Aquitaine with her favorite son, Richard.
Robin Hood was known as an expert with the Long Bow. Lore suggests that he could send an arrow a mile with his Long Bow This popular Medieval weapon was constructed from the ewe tree. If he carried a battle sword, it was likely what is now called a Crusader sword. He probably did carry a dagger, because this weapon was small and more readily available to his class. He probably wore a jerkin (shirt) either of leather or rough cotton. Also, an axe was in his arsenal of weapons, because the tool could also be used to clear land as well as being employed for protection. If he needed protection from the sword of an enemy he carried a buckler (a small round shield). For head protection he wore a battle helmet that was flat on top and covered his face.
In fact, it is also historical fact that King Richard on his return from the Holy Land did visit Sherwood Forest where Robin and his merry men were said to reside. It is not known that he visited the forest to find Robin Hood and thank him for his efforts on his behalf. This is only reported in legend. But the story is told in poetry or a song from a traveling minstrel:
” King Richard hearing of the pranks
Of Robin and his men,
He much admir’d and more desir’d
To see him and them.
Then with a dozen of his lords,
To Nottingham he rode:
When he came there, he made good cheer
And took up his abode.”
I for one am a believer in the existence of Robin Hood. It is a great story and who doesn’t love a good story?
Also referred to as a parrying dagger, main gauche swords were used in juxtaposition with traditional rapiers during the late Middle Ages. The main gauche, which is French for left hand, was used to deflect incoming attacks while the rapier was utilized for offense. If the opportunity presented itself, the main gauche could also be used for offense, of course.
This combination of weaponry was particularly popular with the Schools of Fence in Renaissance Europe. As the sport of fencing evolved, the use of the offhand weapon fell out of style. Although the main gauche isn’t used in contemporary fencing, it still is a prized item for historical collectors.
From the 5th to the 15th century is Europe, there was a decided departure from the trend of education and development. This era has earned several monikers, including the Middle Ages, Medieval and, due to the decline of education, innovation and the arts, the Dark Ages. During this period, there was an emphasis on brutality and medieval helmets and armor were common attire.
For a time, there was the legitimate concern that reading and writing would become antiquated practices as their importance in popular culture waned. Fortunately, several monks worked to preserve these essential practices and kept them alive during these dark times. Luckily, the Middle Ages were followed by the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment, which imbued society with a new appreciation for intellectual pursuits.
Following is an article by Barbara Walton who owns a bed and breakfast in the Limousin region of France. Medieval enthusiasts will fully appreciate the beautiful landscape as well as the historical castles and landmarks that are prevalent in this region. In addition to viewing the scenery, Barbara offers painting courses conducted in the midst of this magnificent scenery.
“Mysterious Limousin, land of lakes and legends, wild and free. This region is known as ‘Hidden France’ because, though beautiful and steeped in history, it is still relatively undiscovered. Step back in time to enjoy all the ambiance of France, the wine, the food and sunshine, quiet country roads bordered with cowslips and the early purple orchids. You drive along these pretty routes when you follow the Route of Richard the Lionheart linking thirteen castles and five other major historical sites.
- Excellent botanical garden behind Limoges Cathedral
- Museum of Métiers also near the cathedral. A fascinating museum devoted to the crafts.
- Visit the Porcelain Museum at Limoges
- Cassinomagus is an important Gallo - Roman site at Chassenon, ten minutes from Videix. They organise fantastic days when people dress up as ancient Gauls or Romans and show crafts, costumes, housing, warefare etc. Not well publicised but not to be missed!
- The town of Pierre-Buffier is about 1 hour away from Les Trois Chenes and has (or had) monestary of 11th century and has 11th century church - Sainte-Croix. It is well worth a visit
- The town of La Rochefoucauld is only thirty minutes away. It is dominated by a Fairytale Castle complete with moat. Here you can dress up in Medieval costume and parade around the Chateau. The kids love this – but so do the adults.
Take a bit of time to see the very many other wonderful places to see and things to do. After seven years I’m still discovering Limousin!