The Queen’s Sword: Unveiling the Royal Arsenal
The Queen (or King, depending on the reigning monarch) doesn’t use a single, dedicated “Queen’s sword” in all contexts. Instead, the specific sword employed depends entirely on the ceremony and its purpose. For instance, to knight individuals, the sovereign touches the recipient’s shoulders with the knighting sword, which was used by King George VI as Colonel of the Scots Guards (RCIN 250092). However, that is only one instance of the many swords involved with the Royal Family.
Swords of State and Ceremony
The British monarchy boasts a fascinating collection of swords, each steeped in history and symbolism. These aren’t mere props; they are powerful representations of the monarch’s authority, responsibilities, and role within the nation. Let’s delve into some of the key swords and their significance:
The Sword of Mercy (Curtana)
Also known as the Sword of Mercy, Curtana is a ceremonial sword used at the coronation of British kings and queens. What sets it apart? Its blunted tip. This isn’t a flaw; it’s a deliberate design choice symbolizing mercy and justice tempered with compassion. In ancient times, bearing this sword before the king was considered a privilege.
The Sword of State
This imposing sword represents the monarch’s authority. It’s a symbol of their power and leadership over the nation. As we saw during King Charles III’s coronation, the Sword of State is a prominent element of the procession, borne by a high-ranking official, in that case, Penny Mordaunt.
Swords of Justice: Temporal and Spiritual
During the coronation procession, two swords are presented representing different facets of justice:
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The Sword of Temporal Justice: Symbolizes the monarch’s role as Head of the Armed Forces. This represents their responsibility to protect the realm and uphold the law.
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The Sword of Spiritual Justice: Signifies the monarch as Defender of the Faith. This highlights their role as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England.
The Elizabeth Sword
This is a relatively new addition to the royal collection, commissioned at the end of 2022 and named after the late Queen Elizabeth II. It’s a ceremonial state sword kept in Edinburgh Castle and used at ceremonial occasions in place of the Scottish Sword of State. Its design is inspired by Scotland’s national flower, the thistle, and the Scottish landscape.
FAQ: Swords and the Monarchy
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the fascinating world of royal swords:
1. What sword is used for knighting ceremonies?
The sovereign touches the recipient briefly on each shoulder with the knighting sword, which was used by King George VI as Colonel of the Scots Guards (RCIN 250092).
2. Why was Penny Mordaunt carrying a sword at King Charles’ coronation?
As Lord President of the Privy Council, Penny Mordaunt carried the Sword of State as part of her official duties during the King’s Procession.
3. What is the significance of Curtana, the Sword of Mercy?
Curtana‘s blunted tip symbolizes mercy and justice tempered with compassion.
4. How many swords are used during the coronation ceremony?
At least three swords are used during the Coronation Procession at Westminster Abbey: the Sword of Temporal Justice, the Sword of Spiritual Justice, and the Sword of Mercy (Curtana).
5. What is the Elizabeth Sword, and where is it kept?
The Elizabeth Sword is a ceremonial state sword kept in Edinburgh Castle, used at ceremonial occasions in place of the Scottish Sword of State.
6. How much did the Elizabeth Sword cost?
The Elizabeth Sword cost £22,000 ($28,000).
7. What do the Swords of Temporal and Spiritual Justice represent?
The Sword of Temporal Justice signifies the Monarch’s role as Head of the Armed Forces, and the Sword of Spiritual Justice signifies the Monarch as Defender of the Faith.
8. How heavy is the Sword of State that Penny Mordaunt carried?
The Sword of State that Penny Mordaunt carried weighs approximately 8 lbs.
9. What inspired the design of the Elizabeth Sword?
The design of the Elizabeth Sword takes inspiration from Scotland’s national flower, the thistle, and the Scottish landscape.
10. Besides the Sword of State, what other items are part of the Honours of Scotland?
The Honours of Scotland also includes the Scottish Crown Jewels, used by Scottish monarchs at their coronation.
11. Why does the Queen (or King) wear gloves when shaking hands?
Gloves protect the monarch’s hands, as they shake a large number of hands.
12. What is the significance of the Orb?
The gold Orb weighs 1.32kg and is mounted with emeralds, rubies and sapphires surrounded by diamonds and pearls. During the coronation service, the Orb is placed in the right hand of the monarch symbolizing Christendom.
13. What are the two ladies in white at the coronation?
One is Annabel Elliott, the Queen’s sister, and the other is Lady Lansdowne (also known as Fiona Mary Petty-Fitzmaurice, Marchioness of Lansdowne), both of whom perform the royal role of a Queen’s Companion.
14. Is there any cultural significance to Maharana Pratap’s swords?
King Maharana Pratap brandished a pair of 25 kg swords, making them the heaviest swords known to have existed, representing his strength and valor. It is said that he would offer one sword to his enemy before a fight, if he was unarmed.
15. Where can I learn more about the historical and cultural significance of games?
Explore the intersection of games, learning, and culture at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org explores how games can enhance education and understanding of various cultural contexts, similar to how the British monarchy’s swords offer insights into its history and traditions.
The swords of the British monarchy are far more than mere ornamental objects. They are tangible links to the past, powerful symbols of authority, and reminders of the responsibilities borne by the sovereign. Each sword tells a story, and together, they form a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and symbolism that continues to captivate and inspire.