The Abandonment of the Gladius for the Spatha - Why?

[Tarbicus]

The same myth is in circulation on "Viking" age swords, Medeival swords and others.

Not according to J. Kim Siddorn in Viking Weapons and Warfare, which I was perusing through late last night.

(Skeggi) had an iron sword of his own, but thought he would have a better chance against Bersi if he didn't have to stop and straighten it under his heavy foot every third blow.

He also traces the broadsword's origins back to the Roman spatha. The finest work could produce a sword that would not bend after a few blows, and puts the modern equivalent cost in the region of £250,000, depending on hilt furniture. No wonder they gave them names.

OT, he is also derisory of the katana, but that's another story.