Armour & Weapons

Many existing studies of arms and armor are either massive tomes or pricey volumes that sit on library shelves out of reach for most readers. This compact handbook steps in to change that, delivering reliable information about European defensive equipment without the bulk or cost of traditional references. Its clear layout makes the subject approachable for students, hobbyists, and anyone curious about how warriors protected themselves.

Compiled from a series of popular Oxford lectures, the author weaves together technical details, historical development, and vivid illustrations drawn from leading scholars such as Baron de Cosson and Viscount Dillon. Each chapter breaks down helmets, cuirasses, swords, and polearms, explaining how they were made, worn, and evolved over centuries. The abundant diagrams let listeners picture the craftsmanship behind each piece.

While the book stops short of claiming to be a definitive history, it offers a solid foundation for understanding the practical and social dimensions of armor. Readers will come away equipped to recognize authentic pieces in museums, appreciate their construction, and pursue deeper research with confidence.