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Longsword dancing is a form of English ritual dance.

The earliest written records of Longsword are from the 15th century, although the dances are thought to have been passed down from pre-christian times, possibly brought to this country by pagan Vikings.

It's also possible that iron was thought to have magical properties which would promote fertility and encourage the coming of a good spring and summer, in an age when this was a matter of life or death!

Many villages, particularly in Yorkshire, had their own style of dance which was passed on from generation to generation (and still is in some cases).

The dances involve from five to eight performers who each carry a rigid metal bar or wooden lath approximately 30 to 40 inches long including the handle.

The usual pattern of performance starts with the rhythmic clashing of these "swords". This followed by the formation of a ring in which each person holds the handle of his sword and the point of his neighbour's. There follows a a number of weaving and twisting movements which demand a high degree of teamwork if the circle is to remain unbroken throughout the dance.

At certain stages of the dance the swords are plaited together to form various shapes (called a "lock") which is held aloft.

The above is based on information from:-

Rattle Up My Boys - The Story of Longsword Dancing by Trevor Stone.

The Sword Dances of North East England - Vaughan Williams Memorial Library - Leaflet No. 17

For further information, contact the Mens Foreman at mensforeman@bishopgundulfs.co.uk

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