The Archaeology of Weapons: Arms and Armour from Prehistory to the Age of Chivalry [Paperback]

Ewart Oakeshott (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 1999

In The Archaeology of Weapons, Ewart Oakeshott traces the development of European arms in logical sequence, showing how changes were wrought by the use of new materials and the ever-shifting demands of war and fashion. This history begins nearly two hundred years before the Christian era, covering among other subjects the charioteers of the Near East, the Roman attitude to arms and the Bronze Age weapons of Europe. The core of the book, however, is the middle ages: a general survey of the institution of chivalry, an understanding of which is vital to the appreciation of all the arms of the high middle ages, is followed by a classification covering all sword types from about 1050 to 1500. Oakeshott draws on a variety of sources, from the archaeological evidence provided by existing weapons to the clues to be found in literature as diverse as the Old Testament, the works of Homer, Norse sagas and medieval romances. The symbolic importance of the sword is treated as an essential part of this lucid study and adds much to its archaeological interest.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

EWART OAKESHOTTis one of the world's leading authorities on the arms and armour of medieval Europe. His other works on the subject include Records of the Medieval Sword and The Sword in the Age of Chivalry.

Product Details

• Paperback: 382 pages
• Publisher: Boydell Press (April 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0851157386
• ISBN-13: 978-0851157382
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,941,676 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Vital for any student of European arms and armor!, October 2, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Archaeology of Weapons: Arms and Armour from Prehistory to the Age of Chivalry (Hardcover)

Oakeshott presents, in very readable form, not only a wealth of information concerning European arms and armor through the ages, but excellent historical overveiws of the periods discussed which include the best 'nutshell' history of the Migration Era and Viking era that it has ever been my pleasure to read. Any serious student of arms and armor must read this book. The author's style of writing is unusually engaging and informative, and much more readable than the normal run of dry English historical books. He has the ability to bring history alive in your heart, as it so obviously is alive for him.