Mace is a term that can refer to different types of instruments and utensils.
Mace is a term that has various uses. If we want to know its etymological origin, we have to go to Latin, since it emanates from a Vulgar Latin word: mattea , which was a variant of mateola . This was a weapon that was characterized by being composed of a long stick that ended in an iron ball.
In ancient times, therefore, a mace was a weapon with an iron shaft (or trimmed with this material) and a thick head , or a club with a wider end. This end of the mace was the heaviest part of the instrument and the one that inflicted damage on the opponent.
History of the mace
The creation of the mace dates back to Prehistory , when it was used in fighting between men but also for hunting wild animals . Over time, the mace evolved and its head began to include blades or spikes made of iron, lead, bronze or other metals .
The weapon mace , the macana and the flail are some types of mace. This weapon, in any case, fell into disuse following the evolution of shields and defensive weapons.
Thor's weapon
Precisely taking this meaning into account we would have to highlight that there is a Norse god, later converted into a comic book and movie superhero, who has a mace as one of his most important possessions. We are referring to Thor , the god of thunder.
This object, which is called mjolnir , has a series of very special singularities such as that it can shrink; can be used to launch lightning bolts; Even if it is thrown, it always returns to the hands of its owner; and it is not only a weapon, but also an amulet.
A judge may hit his table with a gavel to call for silence.
Other meanings of the notion of mace
A mace, on the other hand, is a hardwood instrument that, developed like the combat mace, is used for crushing and other uses. As a kitchen utensil , the mace is used to break ingredients into very small pieces.
Currently, it must be emphasized that, in addition, this type of mace is used within the judicial field. When a trial takes place, the judge has this wooden instrument on his table that is used to ensure that the courtroom remains silent. Thus, when those attending the session, the lawyers or those involved speak at the same time, the magistrate proceeds to strike with that tool so that everyone remains silent and can continue in order.
On the other hand, within the field of rhythmic gymnastics there is an instrument that athletes use to perform their exhibitions and that receives the same name.
More uses of the term
Other meanings of the concept of mace included in the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) refer to a ball covered in leather and with a wooden handle that is used to play the bass drum; the thicker end of the cue in the game of billiards; and the stick used in rhythmic gymnastics.
Maza , finally, is a common surname in Latin American countries such as Argentina , Chile , Colombia and Venezuela .