I just received Book of the Sword by Sir Richard Francis Burton, aka the most interesting man in the world. First published in 1884, Burton draws on a wealth of linguistic, archaeological, and literary sources to trace the millennia-old history of the sword. He takes us from its earliest days as a charred, sharpened stick to the height of craftsmanship in the modern era.

I’m not too far into it, but so far it’s really good. I can’t speak for the accuracy of the subject matter of a 140 year old book about the history of weaponry, but it’s written in an eloquent prose fitting a 19th century renaissance man which I’ve always found enjoyable.

I can tell that Burton’s writing style is a bit unique. His writing is very erudite, opinionated, and often pedantic in the extreme. The main reason I wanted this book is because I find the author and his life incredibly fascinating, and I want to collect more of his work.

My request

I’m looking for recommendations on medieval law. Specifically the idea of trials by ordeal or trials by combat. I was recently reading about the trial of Emma of Normandy who was accused of having engaged in sexual relations with Bishop Elfwine of Winchester. Emma insisted she was innocent, and she was willing undergo the ordeal of hot iron to prove it. I also recently watched the film The Last Duel which is about the last legal trial by combat held in France between Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris. These have sparked a strong curiosity in these medieval law practices.

My recommendation

I’ve been listening to The Great Trials of World History and the Lessons They Teach Us by Professor Douglas O. Linder of the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law.

It’s incredibly engaging so far. It examines famous trials throughout all points in history and analyzes why they are important for study. It’s covers trials such as the trial of Socrates in Ancient Greece, the Salem Witch trials, the Amistad trials, even the OJ Simpson trial and many more.

Trying to become more of a movie snob. Looking for recommendations on the history and evolution of film and cinema. A general history is fine but I’d also like deep dives into specific genres. Like a history and analysis of the Horror genre in film and so on

Also I would like recommendations of a examination of politics and social issues being demonstrated within comic books if that’s a thing.