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Naming your sword: Soul and Function
Naming your sword can be a deeply personal and symbolic act. Throughout history, swords have been more than just weapons or tools—they carry stories, traditions, and a sense of purpose. Some of the most famous swords, like Roland’s Durendal, King Arthur’s Excalibur, and Charlemagne’s Joyeuse, were believed to have souls, charged with power and symbolism. At Malleus Martialis, we strive to honor this tradition, blending history, craftsmanship, and function in each blade we create.
Relics enough thy golden hilt conceals: / Saint Peter’s Tooth, the Blood of Saint Basile, / Some of the Hairs of my Lord, Saint Denise, / Some of the Robe, was worn by Saint Mary. – About Durendal, from La Chanson de Roland
The Tradition of Naming Swords
Many of the custom blades we craft at Malleus Martialis seem to shout their name as they take shape. In many cultures, the act of “naming” had the ritual power to bring to existence. Our ancestors believed that by naming a sword, they were defining its identity. Some ancient blades even carry auspicious inscriptions or symbols in the fuller.
Also, the advent of Christianity played an important role in the development of the symbolic meanings connected to the sword as an object. As a symbol of justice and equity, as of the Christ’s cross and passion, the sword became the icon of the chivarly’s rights and status.
This fascination persists today, with swords remaining iconic symbols, recognized by historical fencers, HEMA practitioners, collectors, and reenactors alike.
What Defines a Sword’s Soul?
The concept of a sword’s soul is closely tied to its function. When designing a blade, the first question is always: what will it be used for?
No matter how intricate the craftsmanship or how striking the design, a sword with wrong dynamics will be an empty piece of metal.
For example, blades created for Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) – like our Sport Collection Swords – need to balance being light and durable for effective training. Each blade type is tailored to match a specific fencing style and the historical techniques that come with it. They’re also designed to perform well in modern competitions, ensuring they remain relevant and practical today.
Swords crafted for collectors – like our Armeria Collection Swords – often focus on historical accuracy and visual appeal. They aim to capture the spirit of the era and the swordsmanship style they represent, blending authenticity with artistic beauty and often taking inspiration from the real museum artifacts and figurative art.
Naming Your Sword
How to name your sword? Whether you’re a fencer, reenactor, or collector, the sword you choose is an extension of your identity. When selecting a name for your sword, it’s essential to reflect on its meaning and significance to you. Here are some questions to guide you through this thoughtful process:
- What inspired you to choose this sword?
- Is there a personal story or connection that influenced your choice?
- What qualities do you associate with this sword?
- Consider its design, weight, and feel. Does it embody strength, elegance, or history?
- Do you have a historical figure or legend in mind?
- Perhaps you want to name your sword after a famous warrior, a mythological character, or a significant event.
- What emotions do you want to evoke with this name?
- Should it inspire fear in your opponents, respect among your peers, or pride in your lineage?
- How does this sword represent your fencing style or philosophy?
- Does it reflect a particular technique or approach to combat?
- Is there a cultural or linguistic significance to the name?
- Consider using words from different languages or historical contexts that resonate with you.
- What legacy do you want this sword to carry?
- Think about how you want future generations to remember you through your sword.
By reflecting on these questions, you can discover a name that resonates with your journey and connection to your sword.
Conclusion
Naming a sword is more than just tradition—it’s a way of honoring history. By crafting each sword with a clear function in mind, we ensure that every blade has its own unique story, ready to be wielded by those who appreciate both its form and its meaning.
For those interested in custom swords, blunt historical replicas, or functional HEMA blades, explore our shop to experience the art and craftsmanship that goes into each sword.
