What is the purpose, use, or effect, etc. of the curves or waves on certain two-handed swords? What did people who were around during the time period that these swords saw use think about the purpose, use, effect of these blades? Were the wavy blades preferred to straight blades? Was the difference mainly for aesthetics?

I have heard different explanations for these blades, some of which are contradictory. I am wondering what the informed opinion is and what the evidence actually shows. Please feel free to direct me to other posts if this has been covered in former topics.

Greg,
You can try here for information:

http://www.myArmoury.com/talk/viewtopic.php?t=8067

http://www.myArmoury.com/talk/viewtopic.php?t=629