Herzer, Matthias H. Wehrpflichten und Heerfolge im Spätmittelalter

Lower nobility, mercenaries, townspeople and country folk in the military orders of the 15th century

In modern reception, medieval warfare is often reduced to large-scale battles or sieges in which two opposing parties face each other and fight brutally for victory with considerable troop contingents.

The complex structures that were necessary to raise military contingents within the feudal system of warfare in the late Middle Ages, as well as the composition of larger army units, including their relocation and supply, are not taken into account here.

In addition to the nobility, conscripts from the urban and rural populations were an elementary component of warfare in the late Middle Ages. Accordingly, these conscripts had to be equipped with armour and weapons, be regularly mustered, and have at least a basic understanding of military discipline and be proficient in the use of weapons.

This volume deals with the army in German-speaking countries during the 15th century. The composition, mobilisation and organisation of military units are discussed, as are conscription for the urban and rural population and their tactical deployment in armed conflicts. The armament, equipment and war material of the military units are also analysed and visualised, providing a particularly vivid picture of late medieval military history.

Table of contents

Acknowledgements

Foreword

Introduction

Composition of military levies

Urban defence

Rural defence

Mercenary forces

War and warfare

Viking longships, fortresses and transport

Food and supplies on military campaigns

During military campaigns

Wounds, wound care, invalidity and death
Equipment and weapons

Prices of weapons and armour
Income and cost of living

Bibliography