Knights and Longswords: The Versatility and Evolution of Medieval Weapons

During the medieval period, knights wielded a variety of weapons to conduct battles effectively. Among these, the longsword was a prominent choice, known for its versatile use in both cutting and thrusting.

Introduction to the Longsword

The longsword is a type of arming sword distinguished by its long blade and two-handed grip. This sword was favored not only for its utility in combat but also for its adaptability in both mounted and foot fighting. The design of the longsword evolved over time, with notable features such as a crossguard for hand protection and a grip that allowed for various techniques.

The Role of Longswords in Medieval Combat

By the late medieval period, particularly in the 14th and 15th centuries, the longsword became a prominent weapon among knights. It was often used alongside other weaponry such as shields, daggers, and polearms. The longsword was not only used by knights but also by other warriors, who recognized its effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

Versatility of the Longsword

The arming sword, when enhanced for use in one hand, two hands, or half-sworded, offered significant versatility. Half-swording involved one hand on the hilt and the other pressing down on the blade, providing improved leverage and control, which was crucial for finding gaps in armor. This technique allowed knights to target weaker parts of their opponent's armor, including the throat, visor, armpit, inside of the elbow, palm of the hand, back of the wrist, groin, back of the thigh, and knee.

The tour de bras, a maneuver where the quillons (the crossguard) were used to drive into or hook around the opponent's weapon, was a tactical move that could disorient or unbalance an adversary. In some cases, this could even result in throwing the opponent off balance if a thrust missed or was parried. This dual-purpose sword functionality made it a valuable tool in both offense and defense.

Evolution of Weapons in Medieval Warfare

While the longsword was a primary weapon, knights were also equipped with a variety of other swords and weapons. These ranged from arming swords to larger types such as Zweihanders (two-handed swords), greatswords, and spadone. Each of these had a unique purpose and were used in different contexts. The definition and naming of these weapons evolved over time, with modern categorizations and names often being more specific and modern than those used during the medieval period.

For instance, the term "sword" was a general term in various local languages, often referring to whatever sword was fashionable at the time. It was not until the Victorian and modern era that these types of swords were given distinct and concrete names such as Zweihander, spadone, greatsword, etc. These larger swords, while lighter than many common misconceptions would suggest, typically did not exceed five pounds, with many arming swords being closer to three to four pounds. This lightweight design allowed for greater speed and maneuverability on the battlefield.

Conclusion

From its inception to its use in the late medieval period, the longsword exemplified the versatility and adaptability of medieval swords. Knights employed this versatile weapon in a variety of combat scenarios, making it a staple of their arsenal. Understanding the evolution and use of these weapons provides insight into the sophistication and strategic nature of medieval warfare.