He begins by analysing the sources for our knowledge of the military history of the period, assessing their reliability: some chroniclers exaggerate, others are careful observers or have access to official records. There follows an examination of the constituent parts of the medieval army, knights and footsoldiers, equipment and terms of service, behaviour on the field, and psychology, before the problematic question of medieval tactics is addressed through analysis of accounts of a series of major battles. Strategy is discussed in the context of these battles: whether to seek battle, fight a defensive war, or attempt a war of conquest.

In 'The Art of War in the Middle Ages: Military History of Europe (378-1515)' by Charles Oman, the reader is taken on a detailed exploration of the military tactics and strategies employed in Europe during this significant time period. Omans writing style is scholarly and meticulously researched, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of warfare over centuries. The book delves into battles, sieges, and military technology, offering a thorough analysis of the successes and failures of European military campaigns. Oman's work is regarded as a foundational text in the study of medieval warfare, making it essential reading for anyone interested in the military history of Europe. Charles Oman, a respected historian and military strategist, brings his expertise to 'The Art of War in the Middle Ages'. With a background in both academia and practical military experience, Oman offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of medieval warfare. His passion for the subject shines through in his detailed research and engaging prose, making this book a standout in the field. I highly recommend 'The Art of War in the Middle Ages' to history enthusiasts, students of military history, and anyone interested in the tactics and strategies employed by European armies from 378 to 1515. Omans expertise and thorough analysis make this book an indispensable resource for understanding the evolution of warfare during this era.

This text examines the nature of war in the period 1000-1300 A.D. and argues that is was primarily shaped by the people who conducted war - the landowners.

Earlier edition published under title: A history of the art of war in the Middle Ages. Includes bibliographical references and index.

This richly illustrated book explores over seven hundred years of European warfare, from the time of Charlemagne to the end of the middle ages (c.1500). The period covered has a distinctive character in military history. It was an age when organization for war was integral to social structure, when the secular aristocrat was by necessity also a warrior, and whose culture was profoundly influenced by martial ideas. Twelve scholars, experts in their own fields, have contributed to this finely illustrated book. It is divided into two parts. Part I seeks to explore the experience of war viewed chronologically with separate chapters on, for instance, the Viking age, on the wars and expansion of the eleventh and twelfth centuries, on the Crusades and on the great Hundred Years War between England and France. The chapters in Part II trace thematically the principal developments in the art of warfare; in fortification and siege craft; in the role of armoured cavalrymen; in the employment of mercenary forces; the advent of gunpowder artillery; and of new skills in navigation and shipbuilding. In both parts of the book, the overall aim has been to offer the general reader an impression, not just of the where and the when of great confrontations, but above all of the social experience of warfare in the middle ages, and of the impact of its demands on human resources and human endurance.