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EARLY BRONZE AGE DAGGERS IN CENTRAL ... - Bilkent University

EARLY BRONZE AGE DAGGERS IN CENTRAL ... - Bilkent University

EARLY BRONZE AGE DAGGERS IN CENTRAL ... - Bilkent University

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2.1 Definition<br />

Nevertheless, a simple internet search for a dagger, basically in any language,<br />

will also include large knives along with what is considered to be a dagger in this<br />

study. The reason behind this seems to be the cultural value of what is attached to<br />

daggers. The knives that are included in the "dagger" category are what we can<br />

consider "an intimidating weapon". The modern emphasis on the “weapon” quality of<br />

a dagger might be misleading since it is certain that the daggers in prehistoric times<br />

were an important tool not just for war but also for peaceful purposes. As a result, a<br />

dagger’s weapon quality cannot be used as a sole qualifying contribution for defining<br />

it but, rather, its dual function as a utilitarian tool and a weapon should be accepted.<br />

Even though, we can define a dagger as a pointed, symmetrical bladed weapon,<br />

size variation creates further classification issues which complicate what should be<br />

considered a razor, short sword or dagger. The scholarly opinion on the limits of the<br />

blade length which determines what can be considered a razor, a dagger or a short<br />

sword is varied. Since this issue is not resolved in scholarly literature, in most of the<br />

studies the distinctions between a razor, dagger or a sword based on its blade length is<br />

decided by the researcher (Zimmermann, 2007: 5-6). On this consideration it should<br />

be also noted that the continued use of a blade will cause the blade size to be reduced<br />

in length and, to some degree in thickness, by result of occasional re-sharpening<br />

processes (Zimmermann, 2007: 6).<br />

There is a need to establish some guidelines for making a distinction between a<br />

razor, dagger and a short sword in this study. A dagger, considering its minimal<br />

length, should be able to serve a dual function: a tool that can serve a utilitarian<br />

9

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