The Norman Medieval Sword

The transition from the Germanic to the swords of the Medieval period took shape between the 10th and 11th centuries. While the blade geometry remained relatively constant, the main changes were the introduction of the crucifix guard and transition into the wheel pommel which is now typically associated with the Norman swords as well as those of the later part of the middle ages.  The Normans (also called Northmen or Norsemen) were the descendants of the Scandinavian Vikings who raided the European coastal settlements at the outset of the 8th century. Despite Norman’s conversion to Christianity and their adoption of Frankish way of life, the Normans retained many of the traits of their Germanic ancestors. This medieval sword is historically bound to the Normans because of its frequent appearance in the Bayeux Tapestry: an embroidery that depicts the Norman Conquest. The Norman battle ready Sword, classified as type Xa by Oakeshott’s typology, is classically styled with the traditional