Longsword

A longsword (also spelled as long sword or long-sword) is a type of European sword that was used a long time ago. It has a special shape with a cross-like handle called a hilt that fits two hands, and a long, straight blade that has edges on both sides. These swords were heavy, usually weighing between 2 to 3 kilograms, or about 4 to 7 pounds.

The longsword was used mostly during the late medieval and Renaissance periods, from around the year 1350 to 1550. It was similar to other swords of that time, like the knightly sword and the larger Zweihänder. People who fought with these swords were often knights or soldiers, and the design made it good for both holding and striking in battles.

Names

The longsword had many names throughout history. In English, it was called a "bastard sword" or a "hand-and-a-half sword." The term "bastard sword" dates back to the 15th or 16th century and originally meant an irregular or unusually large sword. Another name, "hand-and-a-half sword," came about in the late 19th century because the sword could be used with one or two hands.

In other languages, the longsword had different names as well. For example, in Portuguese it was called espada-de-armas or espada de duas mãos, in Spanish it was known as espadón or mandoble, and in Italian it was referred to as spada longa or spada due mani. The German term langes schwert referred to the technique of fencing with both hands rather than a specific type of sword.

Evolution

The longsword is known for its longer grip, which shows it was meant for two-handed use. Swords with very long hilts existed in the High Middle Ages, but they were rare and not common until the late 13th or early 14th century.

The longsword became a common weapon in the 14th century, especially during the early Hundred Years' War. It was used by soldiers wearing full plate armour whether on foot or on horseback. Later, it was also used by soldiers without armour. By the 16th century, its use in battles mostly ended, and it was used more for sport and duels. Different styles of longswords developed in the 16th century, especially in Bavaria and Switzerland.

Morphology

Longswords were designed to be used with two hands. They come in many different shapes and sizes, each suited for specific ways of fighting. Some longswords were broader and better for cutting, while others were narrower and better for thrusting. Over time, the designs changed, with some blades becoming longer and more tapered, and others keeping a broader shape for stronger cuts. These swords were used mainly from the 14th to the 16th centuries and were popular among knights and soldiers.

Main article: Oakeshott typology
Main articles: knightly swords, Crusades, fuller

Fighting with the longsword

Further information: Historical fencing

The longsword was used in a special fighting style where both hands held the hilt of the sword. This style, called "fencing with the long sword" in German, was different from fighting with a short sword, which often involved holding the blade with one hand. The longsword was a versatile weapon, used for quick, powerful thrusts, slices, and cuts.

Fighting with the longsword changed depending on whether the fighter wore armor. Without armor, fighters used many cutting and slicing moves, as well as thrusts, to quickly disable an opponent. With full plate armor, cutting became less effective, so fighters relied more on thrusts and used techniques where one hand gripped the blade to control the sword better. This allowed them to trip, disarm, or throw opponents, making the longsword useful in many different combat situations.

Longswords in popular culture

Longswords are popular in stories, especially in fantasy. They often stand for honor and bravery in battles.

Some famous examples are:

• Andúril, the reforged sword of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings film series, which comes from the pieces of Narsil. It represents kingship and family history.
• Excalibur, the mythical sword of King Arthur, shows up in many books and movies. It is often shown as a longsword.
• Ice, the big sword of House Stark in the TV show Game of Thrones, is made of special Valyrian steel and has been passed down for many generations.