It was fun reading Burton’s ‘Book of the Sword’. He spelled out the whole science of edged weapon use.
On foot, the only effective uses were cut, thrust or guard. On horse back, there were something like 43 regulation cavalry cuts mounted soldiers had to learn.
It had a neat little diagram.
Thrust was preferable to cut, because you could return to the ‘guard’ position more quickly.
Also, the development of a curved blade (scimitar) was something novel. Early sword makers knew that introducing air into a wound would be deadly, whereas someone could conceivably recover from a cut.
The thrust of a curved blade, and depending on the size of the curve, would be certain to introduce air into the wound.
Another interesting anecdote: Julius Caesar encouraged his men to encrust their sword hilts with valuable stones (stolen loot from their fights). Then, they’d be less likely to cast them down and run when attacked.
His book was filled with the most terrific original documents, history and illustrations!!
I'll have to see if I can find that book. I appreciate your notes.
Warmest regards!