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 />
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