David Nicolle, Gerry Embleton - Italian Medieval Armies 1300-1500
Osprey Publishing | 1995 | ISBN: 0850454778 | English | 47 pages | PDF | 36.23 MB
Men-at-Arms Series 136
Osprey Publishing | 1995 | ISBN: 0850454778 | English | 47 pages | PDF | 36.23 MB
Men-at-Arms Series 136
Mercenaries were a common feature throughout most of Europe in the 14th and 15th centuries, and had been known far earlier. But nowhere did such a sophisticated system of hiring, payment and organisation of mercenaries develop as it did in Italy. The condottiere – whose name came from the condotta or contract between himself and his employer – was the result. Whether commander or humble trooper, the condottiere was a complete professional. His skill has never been doubted, but his loyalty and dedication to a particular cause often has. David Nicolle provides a fascinating exploration of the condottiere; his roles, arms and equipment.