Full Description
As the Viking Age gave way to the Middle Ages the development of Scandinavian armies showed special local characteristics, due both to the rough terrain and the relatively 'egalitarian' nature of society. Though Denmark's proximity to Germany led to the appearance there of a kind of feudal system and some heavy armoured cavalry, in Sweden and Norway there was fairly willing co-operation between the few nobles and the many free farmers. This book shows how armies were of local infantry levies raised by 'democratic' methods to defend home territory. It also details how the crossbow became very important along with ambush tactics and winter campaigning, employing the use of sledges and skis.
Contents
Introduction - Chronology of major events - The passing of the Viking age - Denmark: German influence - the feudal system - the nobility, and heavy cavalry - Norway: trading centre but military backwater - Sweden: armies of the early Baltic campaigns - relations between the classes - Armour, weapons and tactics: the importance of the crossbow - Finland: a tribal frontier
