Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #82946 in Books
• Published on: 1988-11
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 336 pages

Synopsis
Eloquent, exceptionally erudite history of the "Queen of Weapons." Traces sword's origin - from prehistory to its full growth during early Roman Empire. Discusses earliest weapons of stone, bone, horn and wood as well as variations: sabre, broadsword, cutlass, scimitar and more. Enhanced

Customer Reviews

A must for sword and fencing enthusiasts!
Written in 1884, this book is full of the history and lore of the sword. Richard Burton (not the actor)was a historian, an explorer, and a fencer, and he managed to blend all three interests in this fascinating biography of "the Queen of Weapons." His passion for the sword is obvious as he follows it from its origins in prehistory to Roman times. For Burton, no praise is too great, no detail too small when it comes to the sword. He had a burning desire to illuminate, to tell what he knew, and this he did with the full force of a tidal wave. Originally planned as the first of three volumes, THE BOOK OF THE SWORD unfortunately sold poorly when it was first published, so the later volumes never materialized. Today, the book is recognized for the work of art it truly is. As a fencing master and writer, I recommend this book highly.

Sterling Work
It is unusual to find a book that goes into detail without rambling off in a random direction. This book is both easy to read, pleasing to the eye, with many diagrams, displays, and illustrations regarding the subject of swords and indeed, all the other weapons that are listed within the book. In truth, I cannot recommend this book highly enough, absolutely sterling work.

A disappointment for Burton
Seeing Burton's (deservedly respected) name on this book, one expects better. It's actually a poorly researched cobbling-together of a number of past sources, some of dubious accuracy. Most is vague, much is just plain wrong.