Medieval European Armies

Osprey Men at Arms #50

by Terence Wise, Gerry Embleton (Illustrator)

Almost continual warfare raged in Europe during the period 1300-1500. These wars were the furnaces in which many of the modern European nations were forged. Parallel with this emergence of the nations came the development of national armies to protect the newly-won borders and independence, yet throughout this period the old feudal method of raising an army persisted. This fascinating study by Terence Wise explores the organization, weapons and equipment of the armies who fought across Medieval Europe, from the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) to the fight against the Moors in Spain, and the French invasion of Italy in 1494.

Genres: History, Military History, Nonfiction, Medieval, Military Fiction

48 pages, Paperback

First published April 30, 1975

About the author

Terence Wise has been a respected historical writer for more than 25 years. He passed away in August 2010.

Reviews

[Ian Burrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very light overview, which isn't surprising given the small volume and the breadth of the subject.

The illustrations are great but again too few to be considered comprehensive. An entry-level introduction, with just enough to encourage further reading.

[Nathan · Rating 3 out of 5]

General information with more specific details about the pivotal weapons - English longbow, Swiss pike.