Medieval Warfare

Few would disagree that medieval military history is one of the most vibrant genres of medieval studies. Helen Nicholson, with her numerous studies on Military Orders, is one of the most prolific reasons for this vibrancy. Now she has turned her innumerable scholarly talents to the writing of a general study on medieval warfare. This work, Medieval Warfare: Theory and Practice of War in Europe, 300-1500, is a remarkable book, of interest both to students just beginning their studies in the field and to well-read scholars. Nicholson has a clear idea of all the aspects of medieval warfare, including theory, personnel, buildings, equipment, and practice.' - Kelly DeVries, Loyola College, Maryland, USA 'Nicholson's written style is superb as always.' - Oxbow Book News 'I am very impressed by the range that Helen Nicholson manages to cover, both chronologically and thematically. Her examples are well chosen, and the themes make excellent sense.' - Michael Prestwich, University of Durham

A masterly synthesis and summary of the present state of knowledge and debates on various aspects of warfare in medieval Catholic Europe between 300 and 1500 AD. It provides a general overview of the subject, with chapters on the theory of warfare, military personnel, buildings and equipment, and the practice of warfare by land and sea.Warfare in medieval times was never static or predictable - although there were ideals and conventions to follow, in the field commanders had to use their initiative and adapt to the needs of the moment. In this concise, wide-ranging study, Helen Nicholson provides the essential introductory guide to a fascinating subject.

Medieval Warfare
- surveys and summarises current debates and modern research into warfare throughout the whole of the medieval period across Europe
- sets medieval warfare theory and practice firmly into context as a continuation and adaptation of practice under the Roman Empire, tracing its change and development across more than a millennium
- considers military personnel, buildings and equipment, as well as the practice of warfare by land and sea