See the various sources I've linked that can counter your point on how "hard" it was to wield two weapons effectively, you'll be pleasantly surprised how wrong you are.
Yes, two one-handed weapons was usually the choice of preference in dueling and other single combat for exactly these reasons. It was advantageous. You also have more control over the flow of combat because of how versatile it can be.
In open warfare? Of course I'd take a shield! Anyone would, like I said... would you like an arrow in your arse? Of course not. No one is saying otherwise here
The only silly claim here being made by most people is that dual-wielding is "fantasy" when it's not. If it was "fantasy" then I guess all of our previous known history may as well be called "fantasy" too ?