Trident
A trident (Latin: tridens) is a type of ancient weapon consisting of a metal head with three prongs mounted on a long wooden shaft.
Like many other types of stabbing and slashing weapons, the trident evolved from a peaceful tool, specifically a harpoon used for fishing. Initially crafted from bone, it was later forged from bronze and iron. To transform into a weapon, the trident underwent several modifications, including the removal of the barbs at the ends of the prongs, which were originally used to hold onto fish. In combat, the trident was used similarly to a spear or hasta, and it could also be employed to catch an opponent’s weapon or limbs. This type of weapon was most commonly associated with the retiarii, a class of ancient Roman gladiator.
In Greco-Roman culture, the trident is best known as a symbol of dominion over the sea and is an essential attribute of the god Poseidon (Neptune).
The trident did not always have exactly three prongs; occasionally, weapons of this type were made with a different number of piercing points, such as five.
Roman Trident. Iron. Private collection. Mid-2nd century CE.
Roman Trident. Iron. Private collection. 14 cm x 30.5 cm. 1st–3rd century CE.
Roman Trident. Iron. Private collection. 14 cm x 30.5 cm. 1st–3rd century CE.Related topics
Gallery
Gladiatorial Trident. Bronze. 1st century BCE – 2nd century CE.
