Book excerpt: At the heart of this study of the history of the sword and dagger in Canaan between c.1550 and 1000 BC lies a catalogue of 190 examples, all of which are illustrated. The catalogue supports a detailed discussion of typology. Ten types are identified by their tang and hilt shape as well as their cultural influences from Egypt and the Aegean. A final synthesis considers technological and social aspects of the daggers and swords, usually found as grave goods, such as what they reveal about Canaanite burial customs, metalworking and contact with Egypt.