The myth: a human with a high-grade steel sword can swiftly stab another human, then swiftly rip the sword out through the victim's side (near the rib cage), with only minimal damage to the sword.

Um...where's the myth? I suggest, with all due respect that you do some further research as far as what a "real" sword can and cannot due, because what you described is very feasible with the right type of sword of course..

There are literally 100's of sword designs and the general term "sword" could mean any one of them...

Study up on what a REAL sword is, the types, how they were made, tested and used..you will answer you own question...

JPH