Although this article is based on canonical information, the actual name of this subject is pure conjecture.
Please see the reasons for this title in the "Behind the scenes" section below, and/or the relevant discussion on the talk page.
The Grail Knight's sword was an 11th century arming sword aka a knightly sword (inspired by a type XII of the Oakeshott typology based on the size of the handle which is one handed, length of the blade, shape and grind of the blade) wielded by the Grail Knight in his role of guardian of the Holy Grail at the Temple of the Sun.
History[]
In 1938, while the knight was reading his book, Indiana Jones entered the Grail's sanctuary. When the knight noticed his presence, he grabbed his sword and swung at Jones, raising it over his head.[1]
However, after centuries of guarding the Grail, the knight's strength failed him and he toppled backwards under the weight of the weapon. Jones helped the Grail Knight get back up and when he saw Jones he smiled. Believing the archaeologist to be the long awaited knight that had come to vanquish him in single combat for protection of the cup, the Grail Knight tried to pass on his weapon. Instead of accepting it, Jones lowered the sword and, pressed for time, he said he was unable to explain the situation when Walter Donovan and Elsa Schneider arrived to take the Grail.[1]
Behind the scenes[]
The prop of the Grail Knight sword measures 99 x 20 x 3 cm.[2] It bears a strong resemblance to Joyeuse, the sword of Charlemagne, which currently resides in the Louvre. The Joyeuse is itself a type XII arming sword according to the Oakeshott typology of swords.
Appearances[]
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade novel
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade junior novel
- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade comic
- LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures (Non-canonical appearance)
- LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues (Non-canonical appearance)
Sources[]
- From Star Wars To Indiana Jones - The Best of the Lucasfilm Archives
The Last Crusade: Standing guard on IndianaJones.com (backup link on Archive.org) (Picture only)- Indiana Jones: The Ultimate Guide