Records of the Medieval Sword

by Ewart Oakeshott

The origins, development and use of the two-edged knightly sword of the European middle ages, from the great migrations to the Renaissance.

Forty years of intensive research into the specialised subject of the straight two-edged knightly sword of the European middle ages are contained in this classic study.
Spanning the period from the great migrations to the Renaissance, Ewart Oakeshott emphasises the original purpose of the sword as an intensely intimate accessory of great significance and mystique. There are over 400 photographs and drawings, each fully annotated and described in detail, supported by a long introductory chapter with diagrams of the typological framework first presented in The Archaeology of Weapons and further elaborated in The Sword in the Age of Chivalry.
There are appendices on inlaid blade inscriptions, scientific dating, the swordsmith's art, and a sword of Edward III.
Reprinted as part of Boydell's History of the Sword series.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Reference, War, Martial Arts, Medieval History, Archaeology

316 pages, Paperback

First published January 2, 1991

Reviews

[Grom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must for the correct historical re-enactments and for the European martial art research

[Endre Fodstad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some people think Oakeshott's "Records" is a typology. This is not really the case (it lacks clear argumentation for transitional forms) - however, it is far more useful as a tool for classifying medieval swords than, say, Ada Brun Hoffmeier's work (which is a true typology). Some people think it is a catalog - it is not, it is an attempt to systematize medieval swords. At this it succeeds admireably. I might have critizised it for its lack of academic typological systematization, but Hoffmeyer DID use that and her work is not nearly half as useful.

[Cort Ockfen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great detailed records of many amazing swords, including Viking and Roman swords.
I couldn't help but laugh as the author details his incorrect restoration techniques on a number of priceless swords. He chalks it up to his youth and immaturity but you have to wonder what this "expert" was doing at times.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

A seminal reference for the medieval european sword scholar and an excellent read for the enthusiast or someone looking to learn more about the reality of the weapons.