Quote Originally Posted by andrewt
There's an archaeological find on Japanese battlefields that found a lot of soldiers died while having their own sword stuck on their heads and helmets. Apparently, they tried to block their opponents' sword with their own but the momentum of their opponents' sword made their own sword hit their head, killing them. Simple physics shows why this will be the case.
This is so true. I have the happy opportunity to duel my son (with wooden blades!) almost daily, and this happens to either him or myself at least two or three time each session. Blocking a hefty swing takes some serious wrist strength.

As for the finer points vs. the basics, one thing to remember is that for most armies before the Roman professional (post-Marian) army, swordfighting or spear work was on the same level as being able to use a plow or mend broken fencing. They simply didn't have the time to become VERY good at battle techniques.

Nobility, of course, were different since they had slaves to do everything. Some hired mercenaries, others (like Achilles) became stunningly good at the art of war.