Medieval Weapons

The History of Excalibur

Spartan-Timer — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:43:26 +0000

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 [...]

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Fantastical Tales from the Middle Ages

Spartan-Timer — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 16:56:07 +0000

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 [...]

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Potential Gladiator Burial Site Found in North England

Spartan-Timer — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:55:35 +0000

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 [...]

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Can’t Afford A Battle Ready Sword?

Dark Falcon — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 23:02:38 +0000

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 [...]

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How Did Europe Emerge from the Dark Ages?

Spartan-Timer — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:54:28 +0000

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 [...]

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Bring the Renaissance Home

Spartan-Timer — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 21:53:55 +0000

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 [...]

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Who Was Robin Hood?

Dark Falcon — Sun, 23 May 2010 19:17:08 +0000

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 [...]

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What is a Main Gauche?

Spartan-Timer — Tue, 18 May 2010 18:14:19 +0000

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 [...]

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What are the Middle Ages?

Spartan-Timer — Tue, 04 May 2010 18:13:40 +0000

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 [...]

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Fortified Chateaux and Fairytale Castles

Lady of Aquitaine — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 20:33:39 +0000

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 [...]

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