Synopses & Reviews
Originally published as Welsh Military Institutions, this book, newly available in paperback, traces the development of the Welsh state in the years after the Roman empire. Sean Davies uses an array of sources to counter the dominant perception of the medieval Welshand#151;driven by Gerald of Walesand#8217;s accountand#151;as a race of noble savages; the resulting, more sophisticated view sets Welsh society in the context of larger European developments, while also offering a close look at the military structures and tactics of the period.
Synopsis
Walesand#8217;s development as a post-Roman successor state is established in this groundbreaking study of medieval warfare and society. Dominant perceptions of the country in this formative period come from Gerald of Wales, who portrayed a race of noble savages, but a more sophisticated approach can now be taken which views the story within the context of Europe. The organisation of a kingand#8217;s forces is examined along with their actions in the field; raiding, ravaging, sieges, battles and conduct are discussed, with analysis of infantry, cavalry, archers, equipment and fortifications. This book questions assumptions regarding the relationship of and#8216;fringeand#8217; cultures to dominant civilisations and the image of the and#8216;barbarianand#8217;, from the Norman invasion of Wales to the Edwardian conquest of 1283.
About the Author
Sean Davies is a historian of medieval Wales who works as a writer, editor, and journalist.
Table of Contents
Editorand#8217;s Foreword
Acknowledgements
Abbreviations
Map of Medieval Wales
Introduction
Iand#160; The Teulu
IIand#160; The Llu
IIIand#160; Campaign Strategy and Tactics
IVand#160; Equipment and Tactical Dispositions
Vand#160; Fortifications
VIand#160; Conduct in Warefare
Conclusion
Bibliography