On the functional analogy between the ancient Persian aršti/arštay and the Maori taiaha from a weaponry point of view
Published: 2011-01-01 | DOI: 10.54799/ENAD1328
Abstract
A distinctive weapon of Achaemenid Persia was a lance (aršti/arštay) whose butt was encased by a spherical metal ferrule. The most probable purpose of this enhancement seems to be for the lance to serve also as a sort of club for striking at the opponent. In this respect this form of the Persian aršti/arštay resembles the taiaha of the Māori of New Zealand, a staff weapon which consists of a spiked end used to thrust and stab, whereas the other end is shaped into a flat blade and used as a blunt weapon. The aršti/arštay and the taiaha are compared and the similarities and differences between the two weapons are discussed.