VIDEO Swords on the back - Historical or Fantasy?

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Swords on the back - Historical or Fantasy? In the YouTube video titled "Swords on the back - Historical or Fantasy?", the host, known as Metatron, delves into a fascinating examination of how swords are often portrayed in movies and video games versus their historical realities. This topic has generated discussion among enthusiasts of both historical warfare and fantasy genres, as the practice of carrying swords on one’s back has become synonymous with many iconic characters.

Content Overview​

Metatron opens the dialogue by recalling a previous discussion focused on "Shields on the back," and sets out to analyze whether carrying swords on one’s back was ever a plausible historical practice or merely a fictional trope popularized in media. The discussion becomes particularly intriguing as he differentiates between various cultures and their historical contexts.

1. Cultural Examination:
   • The host emphasizes that European knights did not carry swords on their backs. Instead, films like The Legend of Zelda or Skyrim illustrate a fantastical version of this practice, which is not supported by historical evidence.
   • Conversely, other cultures, such as the Mongols and Celts, might have carried swords on their backs under specific circumstances. For example, Professor Barry Cunliffe's research highlights that while some Celtic warriors may have had swords slung across their backs, this was not the norm for all warrior classes.
   []Weapon Design and Limits:
   • A significant part of the video's argument hinges on the length and design of historical swords. Metatron describes how longer blades, developed during the medieval period, would make back-carrying impractical, if not impossible.
   • He posits that swords such as the two-handed "long sword" simply could not be drawn effectively from a back position due to their size. In fact, he offers a live demonstration, comparing various swords to illustrate the difficulties involved with unsheathing a sword from the back.
   []Historical Context vs. Fantasy:
   • Throughout the presentation, Metatron stresses the importance of distinguishing between what is functional in combat and what merely looks appealing in popular culture. He argues that in real-life combat scenarios, practicality must take precedence over aesthetic considerations.

     Conclusion​

     The video wraps up by encouraging viewers to appreciate the divide between historical facts and the visual storytelling found in video games and films. Metatron urges viewers to always prioritize effectiveness in combat over visual flair, a critical distinction for enthusiasts of both history and fantasy. This video resonates well with long-time forum participants who have engaged in similar discussions over the years about the representation of historical weapons in media. What do you think? Do you agree with Metatron's conclusion regarding swords on the back? Share your thoughts and let's discuss! Feel free to check out related threads discussing weaponry in video games or historical accuracy in films for an expanded conversation on this topic!