The Diversity of Medieval Shields
In the Middle Ages, protection on the battlefield was essential, and shields played a crucial role in defending warriors. From the iconic Norman shield to the versatile Heater shield, each type of shield had its own characteristics and applications. Next, we will explore some of the most notable medieval shields in history.
The Norman Shield: Elegance and Mobility
The Norman Shield was an elongated triangular shield made of wood and covered in leather. Its elongated shape allowed Norman warriors to easily carry it on horseback. It was brought to England after the Norman Conquest in 1066 and was noted for its use in cavalry. This shield was specially designed to defend against ranged attacks and some researchers see similarities with the kite shield.
The elegance of its triangular design made it an icon of the time, offering protection and mobility to Norman horsemen in battle. His legacy lives on as a testament to craftsmanship and the importance of protection in medieval warfare.
Tower Shield: Protection against Projectiles
The Tower Shield was tall and narrow, especially used by medieval infantry. With a rectangular and elongated shape, this shield was preferably used to protect against attacks with ranged weapons, such as arrows or bolts. Its height provided an effective barrier against enemy projectiles, while its narrow design allowed warriors to maintain mobility on the battlefield.
This shield was an essential tool for medieval infantry during times of conflict and war. Its rectangular and elongated shape made it ideal for protecting against attacks from afar.
Oval Shield: Versatility in Close Combat
The Oval Shield , as its name suggests, had an oval shape with rounded edges. It was widely used in the Middle Ages by Norman people and Anglo-Saxon warriors. This shield was held similarly to the round shield and was ideal for hand-to-hand combat.
The versatility of the oval shield made it a popular choice among medieval warriors. It offered solid protection during hand-to-hand combat, making it invaluable in medieval warfare.
Frequent questions
What was the main characteristic of the Norman shield?
The Norman shield was notable for its elongated triangular shape and its ability to be easily carried on horseback.
What was the tower shield used for in medieval infantry?
The tower shield was primarily used to protect against attacks with ranged weapons such as arrows and bolts.
What was the main advantage of the oval shield in close combat?
The oval shield offered versatility in close combat, providing solid protection in hand-to-hand confrontations.
What other types of medieval shields existed?
In addition to those mentioned, there were other medieval shields such as the round shield, the hand shield, the heater shield, the pavé shield, the targe shield and the kite shield.
Discover the rich history of medieval shields and their importance in protecting warriors. Explore defense in times of battle!
