A Slice Of History: Anthropology Club Holds A Presentation On Medieval Swords Friday, April 26
“This is our presentation on swords, if you’re looking for the D and D Club, that’s down the hall,” said Alice Yeager, the Anthropology Club president.
Have you ever wanted to learn how to hold a sword like Jon Snow? Well, Tessorio Melendez has you covered. Melendez, however, would most likely have a few corrections for our hero of the North.
Melendez, a member of the Anthropology Club, held a presentation on Friday, April 26, that was focused on medieval swords and armour. He set out to explain how swords developed to deal with developments in armour technology, and the techniques that worked in conjunction with weapons of the time to defeat opponents.
Swords evolved from more rounded tipped, wider bladed, slashing instruments into more narrow bladed, and pointed tipped, stabbing instruments.
Connor AmundsenKuester demonstrates the ‘Ox’ position, or a stance intended to target an opponent’s face or neck. 
The Anthropology Club put on a presentation on Friday, April 26, that discussed medieval swords, and attempted to dispel common misunderstandings of combat during that time period. 
Tessorio Melendez (right) and Franklin Bowers show how some of the stances and attacks discussed in the presentation might be put to use during a medieval sword fight. 
Tessorio Melendez also discussed medieval armour, telling the audience that contrary to Hollywood representation, chainmail armour was put to use with great effect– forcing the shape of sword blades to change over time in order to overcome the defense provided.
“As chainmail became more prevalent, swords became more tapered to be able to pierce through the rings and split them apart,” said Melendez.
Melendez spent time during his talk to dispel misconceptions that people might have regarding medieval combat.
“There is a technique called half-swording, where you grab the blade of the sword– yes, many people think that this isn’t a thing, but it is a thing. If you grab it and don’t shift your hand on it, you won’t cut yourself,” said Melendez.
If you are interested in learning more about the Anthropology Club, they meet every Monday at 2 p.m. in IA 223. Or contact Lauren Visconti, their club advisor for more information– visconl@linnbenton.edu
Story and Photos by Alex Gaub
