What was the name of King Arthur's sword?

Few mythical weapons (Review) are as famous as the blade wielded by the King of the Britons. It has appeared in countless films, from Disney's animated classic *The Sword in the Stone* to John Boorman's epic *Excalibur*, often depicted as the ultimate symbol of divine right and royal power. This legendary sword is, of course, named Excalibur, and its story is a cornerstone of Arthurian legend that has captivated movie audiences for generations.

Interestingly, while many film adaptations merge the stories for simplicity, the original legends often feature two distinct swords. The first is the "Sword in the Stone," which Arthur pulls to prove his royal lineage. In many tellings, this sword is later broken in battle. The more famous and powerful blade, Excalibur, is a separate weapon given to Arthur by the enigmatic Lady of the Lake. Its scabbard was said to be magical as well, protecting its wearer from injury.

This mystical origin is matched by its final fate, a scene often recreated on screen. As Arthur lies dying after his final battle, he commands a loyal knight to return the sword to the water (Review) from which it came. When thrown into the lake, a hand emerges to catch it, returning the legendary weapon to its otherworldly home until it is needed again.