ASHOKAN SWORD SEMINAR 2005 - DAY 3 Sunday was a short day, but the first lecture of the day was riveting. Titled “Medieval sword reconstruction,” it was eagerly awaited by all. Dan Maragni did not disappoint, but had plenty of insights into how Medieval swords were made and some of the difficulty involved in reconstructing them. One sword in particular was highlighted. It was a Norman sword dating to 1150, and although plans are in motion to produce a replica, it has not been released yet. In contrast to Viking age swords, this sword, typical of examples from this period, is relatively unadorned. Viking swords could be embellished with precious metals and elaborate engraving, suggesting a decorative rather than functional purpose. The Normans likely produced large quantities of steel that were used for fully functional weapons. Just because it was not adorned and engraved does not mean it was not used by a high ranking person. The choice of which sword to replicate should not, according to those who want to use them now, be dictated by ornament. Not all swords survived, and there is evidence that many ended up as common tools because their raw material was recycled. There are few Norman period swords, and most have been recovered from excavations and are not in good condition. This example is an exception. There is also extensive evidence that this sword had been used. It had been badly bent and straightened, and it was polished many times. In reconstruction one had to consider the original intention of the smith, and not surprisingly, the handle had been replaced many times. It is likely that a wooden handle would have had a functional life not over a season or less. Other notable features of the sword included a very thin cross section. Measurements were taken every 2 inches across the surface of the sword, and closer to the point every 1/4 inch. Unlike a stabbing sword, with a consistent taper throughout the blade, this example was stable over the first half of the blade, and then tapered towards the tip. The prototype replica was made with a thicker tang than the original. In test cutting with the prototype, even cutting pipe and hitting it against concrete, the blade held. The handle did not loosen and the weapon remained functional. While various theories about the importance of harmonic resonance may not, according to the author, be correct, the Norman sword certainly had excellent design. One can hope that very soon there will be excellent replica swords in the hands of eager practitioners. The next presentation of the day was by ARMA. It was titled “rapier techniques,” although a range of weapons were considered. One of the most spirited demonstrations was sword and shield. A recurrent theme though the presentation was the choice of weapons. Whereas a rapier might be ideal for a one on one duel, it is clear that if one had to face a group then a saber would be a better choice. Distance is key. While rapier play would take place at maximal distance, a saber could be used in a smaller space, and would therefore be ideal when pitted against opponents on a ship. Indeed, it would also be useful in cutting rigging from the sails, which may explain, at least in part, why the saber survived as the quintessential naval weapon. 12. ARMA demonstration of sword play with sword and shield. After the ARMA demonstration there was an unscheduled part of the seminar, as Scott Rodell (Tai Chi) and Stuart Feil (ARMA) tested their techniques in a bout. This came as something of a surprise, as it is usual for senior proponents of a particular technique to be reticent about testing their ability. The case is usually made that a bout proves nothing about the utility of a particular school and more about the ability of the fighter. Indeed, this may be the case, but how can one test the utility of a particular technique without testing it? After donning ARMA protective equipment, both fighters began their bout. They were quite careful, neither wanting to commit to an action too soon. Indeed, a major part of the bout was positioning before the attack. The exchanges were quick and there was difficulty in determining who made the most successful hit, although all touches were quickly acknowledged. Many attacks were essentially simultaneous. It was noted that the longer length of the European sword gave that fighter an advantage. Both agreed that there was no conclusive winner. 13. A near simultaneous attack by Scott Rodell (Tai Chi) in blue and Stuart Feil (ARMA) in red. The remainder of the seminar was a knife show, followed by lunch. There had been an ongoing show and tell of new and ethnographic blades throughout the seminar. These informal gatherings could take place in the parking lot, dining hall, or bunkhouse, and offered a wonderful opportunity for an exchange of views. Indeed, the only complaint would be that the event is not held more often, though this may make it something to look forward to. With a limited registration of 85 participants, there were enough people to make it varied, but it was not so large as to discourage interaction. After such an event one could only hope that more academic meetings would be run along similar lines.