Book Review - Swords and Swordsmen

Swords and Swordsmen
Mike Loades
Pen & Sword Books, 2010
Illustrated, 469 pages.

This book traces the journey of the sword from ancient Egypt to the early 20th century. It is however, as much about the context of the weapons; the societies in which the swords developed and evolved.
It discusses the developing technologies that made changes in swords possible whilst sometimes also investigating the personalities of those who wielded them; whether it was the aristocratic warrior, the sword master or the common soldier.

I have known Mike for 37 years, when as young man he knocked at the door of our stables in Sussex. He asked to see my father and said that he wanted to do what he did. Since then his love of the subject has always been apparent, and I am glad to see that love at last transferred to the page. Mike tells the tale of the sword with his usual passion and enthusiasm.
Whilst he delivers facts, he also expresses his personal theories and insights based upon his own research both practical and academic.

Whether your interest is in history in general or in swords specifically, this book is a highly worthwhile read.

Jonathan