A Short History of the Medieval Dagger

Dagger is derived from Latin and is a double edged blade used for stabbing or thrusting, usually a tang extends into the handle along the center line of the blade, and because of this is usually a secondary or third weapon. Daggers can be differentiated from knives because knives are for cutting and a dagger is for stabbing although they can be used for both.

Daggers like battle axes came from the alteration of prehistoric tools. In these times the daggers were made of flint or bone in most cases and have been used as weapons since their first conception. The earliest known metal daggers originated in the bronze age and predate the sword which was an adaption on the dagger. Though the dagger is not as effective as other weapons in regular combat in close quarters combat the dagger proved much more useful.

Ceremonial use of daggers has been in use since pre dynastic egypt and medieval daggers with golden hilts, decorative handles, and ornate sheaths were used to show power or prestige to passersby in the middle ages. Even modern soldiers are equipped with combat knives today. Usually daggers or knives are used as secondary or third weapons with longer range weapons taking first and or second place.

The dagger is very symbolic and has many symbols associated with it. At many times it is seen as a symbol of treachery due to the fact that many assassinations being performed with the device the most famous being Julius Caesar stabbed 23 times by members of the Roman Senate and in Brutus' case it can symbolize the determination or courage to become so close to an enemy. The medieval dagger became ever more popular with the origination of the plate armor of the middle ages for close combat, stabbing thru gaps in armor. The medieval dagger additionally became popular as a murder weapon, easy to acquire without raising suspicion and harder to track down.

Daggers came into use in recent history of the 20th century ornamental uniform regalia. These dress daggers gave business to the depressed metal working center of Soligen and dress daggers were used by Japan, Germany, Italy and others.

Medieval Weapons