''Claret'', The ''Other Sword'' of King Arthur

By Crusader1307

Along with Excalibur and Caenwennan (Dagger), Mythical King Arthur also used a Sword known as Clarent. Although not traditionally a “Battle Blade”, Arthur supposedly used Clarent as his “Dubbing” or Bearing Sword. Several of his later Knights were installed by Claret. A typical Medieval Straight Sword, it would no doubt have been very decorated – to reflect it's purpose as a Ceremonial Blade. It would have been around 35-inches in length and forged of Steel and Brass. As with most 7th Century Blades, a simple Straight Bar Hand Hilt would have provided the only protection. Clarent was “lent” to First Knight Lancelot to use in battle. Legend states (although Lancelot was a might and skilled Fighter), his skill in battle was doubled as a result of his using Claret. Supposedly – as the Legend of Arthur goes, his Son Mordred stole Claret and used it in battle against him. Arthur's “fatal blow” came from Clarent. Unlike Excalibur – which was returned to The “Lady of The Lake” for safekeeping, the whereabouts of Clarent remain unknown.