The sword dance was one of the three chief English dances of
medieval times. It was a ritualistic and
ceremonial drama performed by men wearing functional (sharp, not for show) swords and
elaborate costumes while parading through the streets. The dance represented and depicted the death of the old year, of Winter, and of scarcity. It brought in the new year festively, with hope of spring and plenty. To symbolize the death of winter, a dnacer must always "die" and be brought to life again as a portrayal of
death and
resurrection.