How Do Anvils Work?

An anvil is a metalworking tool consisting of a large block of metal (usually forged or cast steel), with a flattened top surface, upon which another object is struck (or "worked"). ... In most cases the anvil is used as a forging tool. Before the advent of modern welding technology, it was a primary tool of metal workers.

How does the anvil work in Minecraft?

An anvil in Minecraft is a great tool to have, you can use it to repair and rename items, as well as combine enchanted items. The anvil is similar to a grindstone, however, any items used on the Minecraft anvil will keep its enchantments.

Do anvils break IRL?

That seems kinda cheaty, but then again, IRL, anvils don't just explode into nothingness, so it makes perfect sense. Anvils used to be handed down from generation to generation. Minecraft anvils are fragile. First they are smooth, then after they are used for a bit they will get some cracks.