The Book of the Sword

Chapter 2: FOREWORD.

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

History - Other History - Warfare Mythology, Legends & Folklore

About This Book

The author traces the development of edged weapons from prehistoric stone and wooden arms through copper, bronze, and iron metallurgy, describing construction, regional forms, and battlefield use. Chapters discuss cultural and ritual roles of the sword, its symbolism in religion, law, and chivalry, and its presence in myth and ceremony across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Technical aspects such as types, forging, and fencing conventions are considered alongside literary and iconographic references, while historical anecdotes and comparative analysis link material technology to the social and moral meanings attached to the weapon.

FOREWORD.

‘I wanted a book on the Sword, not a treatise on Carte and Tierce,’ said the Publisher, when, some years ago, my earliest manuscript was sent to him.

It struck me then and there that the Publisher was right. Consequently the volume was re-written after a more general and less professional fashion.

I have only one wish that reader and reviewer can grant: namely, a fair field and no favour for certain ‘advanced views’ of Egyptology. It is my conviction that this study, still in its infancy, will greatly modify almost all our preconceived views of archæological history.

RICHARD F. BURTON.

Trieste: November 20, 1883.