Kurzbeschreibung
As early as the 11th century, Italian warfare was developing along lines which were unique in medieval Europe. This fragmented, cosmopolitan region, increasingly rich from international trade, saw the rise of independent cities able to fund armies of urban militia, sometimes defying the traditional feudal aristocracy. Against this background regional powers - the Normans, the Papacy, the German Emperors, the Angevins and Aragonese - manoeuvred for advantage. This engrossing account of the armies of northern and southern Italy - their organisation, command structure, strategy, tactics and fortifications - is illustrated with rare manuscript images, diagrams of fortifications, and eight striking colour plates showing armour and weapons of all types.
Synopsis
Although it was one of the main centres of armour production for export, early medieval Italy's costumes and armour reflected a vigorous but fragmented military system, influenced by Byzantine and Islamic styles as much as by northern Europe. This book shows how the rise of independent city armies and those of the Papacy, the spread of naval power and the founding of Norman states in the south all contributed to a dazzling kaleidoscope of military styles. The fascinating text is accompanied by numerous illustrations including eight full colour plates by the renowned military artist, Angus McBride.
Über den Autor
DAVID NICOLLE was born in 1944, the son of the illustrator Pat Nicolle. He worked in the BBC Arabic service before going 'back to school', gaining an MA from the School of Oriental Studies and a PhD from Edinburgh University. He later taught world and Islamic art and architectural history at Yarmuk University, Jordan. He has written a number of books and articles on medieval and Islamic warfare, and has been a prolific contributor to the Men-at-Arms series for many years. He currently lives and works in Leicestershire.
