Product Description

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.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #699549 in Books
• Published on: 2002-09-18
• Released on: 2002-09-18
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 48 pages

From the Publisher
Packed with specially commissioned artwork, maps and diagrams, the Men-at-Arms series is an unrivalled illustrated reference on the history, organisation, uniforms and equipment of the world's military forces, past and present.

About the Author
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.

Customer Reviews

Beautiful artwork
A detailed men-at-arms title examining an obscure but vital piece of European history, it is supported by eight particularly good plates by Angus McBride, showing warriors of the various Italian, Islamic, and Norman factions that carved out kingdoms in medieval Italy.