The ability to adapt is important too. A swordsman in fiction who can quickly adjust to new opponents and fighting styles is more likely to be considered the best. Take Drizzt Do'Urden from the Forgotten Realms series. He has faced a variety of enemies, from goblins to powerful demons, and has been able to adapt his sword fighting to defeat them.
Skill and technique are crucial. A great swordsman should be able to execute different strikes, parries, and counter - attacks with precision. For example, like Inigo Montoya from 'The Princess Bride'. He has this very polished style of sword fighting.
Well, for starters, extraordinary skill and technique. A great swordsman in fiction can perform complex maneuvers with ease. For example, Zatoichi, the blind swordsman. Despite his blindness, his sword skills are so refined that he can defeat multiple opponents effortlessly. He has a sixth sense about his surroundings and uses it to his advantage in combat.
Experience and mental fortitude play significant roles. A swordsman who has faced numerous challenges and adversaries, like Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings, is stronger for it. Aragorn has fought in many battles, and his experience gives him the confidence and knowledge to handle different situations. His unwavering resolve in the face of danger and his sense of honor also make him a great swordsman. He doesn't just rely on physical strength but also on his mental and emotional stability during combat.
Unique skills. For example, if a swordsman can perform extraordinary sword techniques like deflecting arrows with a sword or fighting multiple opponents at once. It could be their signature move that no one else can do.
Conan the Barbarian could also be considered. He is a fierce warrior with amazing sword - fighting abilities. He has roamed various lands, slaying his enemies with his trusty sword. Conan's swordsmanship is a combination of his raw strength, quick reflexes, and his survival instincts in a brutal world.
A chivalrous man was usually a group of warriors who roamed the world with the mission of protecting the weak and justice. In wuxia novels, heroes often enjoyed a high status and often had extraordinary strength and wisdom to fight against evil forces. The stories of chivalrous men often described how they traveled through the martial world, experienced all kinds of adventures, and made all kinds of friends, eventually becoming legends.
A great BDSM fiction often has well - developed characters. For example, in good BDSM - themed stories, the characters have clear motives and desires. If it's a dominant character, they should have reasons for their need to control, like a past experience that led to this preference.
A great duo in fiction often has complementary skills. For example, like Batman and Robin. Batman is the dark, brooding, and highly skilled fighter and detective, while Robin brings youth, enthusiasm, and a different set of skills. Their combined efforts make them effective in fighting crime in Gotham.
A great fictional couple often has strong chemistry. For example, Han Solo and Princess Leia in 'Star Wars'. They have that spark between them, with their banter and the way they play off each other. Also, they go through challenges together and grow as a result. Their relationship isn't easy, but they face things like the Empire together and in the process, their bond deepens.
Power and combat skills. A great ninja in fiction like Sub - Zero from 'Mortal Kombat' has ice - based powers and amazing martial arts skills that make him a force to be reckoned with in combat.
Skill is a major factor. A great gunslinger like Billy the Kid in fictional portrayals has amazing accuracy and speed with his gun. He can draw and fire in the blink of an eye, hitting his target every time.