Do you know Homer? No, not Simpson. Homer. The author of the Odyssey and the Iliad! If you're still thinking of the yellow dude from Springfield, close your browser and immediately go to the nearest public library. Otherwise, hang tight for a quick history lesson. Homer not only blessed us with some pretty important literature, he also gave us the word "xiphos." Pronounced "zee-foes", it was used to describe a sword. The word evolved to take on a more specific meaning: a double edged, leaf shaped, straight sword designed for close combat. It is the quintessential Greek sword, as evidenced by its appearance on many a Greek pottery piece, and the Xiphos is absolutely necessary for any Greek LEGO armies.