The most extraordinary powers were attributed to the weapon of steel when first invented.

Its sharpness seemed so marvellous when compared with one of bronze, that with the vulgar nothing but magic could account for it.

Traditions, enshrined in fairy tales, still survive in most countries, illustrative of its magical properties.

The weapon of bronze was dull; but that of steel was bright--the "white sword of light," one touch of which broke spells, liberated enchanted princesses, and froze giants' marrow.

King Arthur's magic sword "Excalibur" was regarded as almost heroic in the romance of chivalry.[16] So were the swords "Galatin" of Sir Gawain, and "Joyeuse" of Charlemagne, both of which were reputed to be the work of Weland the Smith, about whose name clusters so much traditional glory as an ancient worker in metals.[17] The heroes of the Northmen in like manner wielded magic swords.