Condottiere 1300–1500

Infamous medieval mercenaries

Condottiere 1300–1500 cover

Description

Originally hired by wealthy Italian city states to protect their assets during a time of ceaseless warring, the Condottiere of the Italian peninsula became famous for his wealth, venality and amorality during the 14th century.

The Condottieri's pursuit of profit meant they were prepared to change sides for the right price, even during battle, and they prospered, becoming both powerful and rich in the process. Leaders such as John Hawkwood, with his famous 'White Company', became major political figures.

Once at the peak of their power, they often worked together to protect their comfortable position by staging a number of visually impressive but almost bloodless battles, thereby avoiding the real thing. It was because of this, and their reliance on medieval tactics and weaponry, including grand armoured knights, that they were eventually wiped out or dispersed by the more modern armies.

Lavishly illustrated with contemporary depictions and original artwork, this title examines the complex military organization, recruitment, training and weaponry of the Condottieri. With insight into their origins and motivations, the author, Dr David Murphy, brings together the social, political and military history of these powerful and unscrupulous men who managed to influence Italian society and warfare for over two centuries.

Table of Contents

Introduction · Chronology · Enlistment · Training · Daily Life · Appearance and Dress · Belief and Belonging · Life on Campaign · The Condottiere in Battle · Conspiracy and Betrayal · Aftermath of Battle · Conclusion · Museums, Collections and Re-enactment · Glossary · Bibliography · Colour Plate Commentary · Index

Product details

Published Jul 24 2007
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 64
ISBN 9781846030772
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 40 b/w; 11 col
Dimensions 248 x 184 mm
Series Warrior
Short code WAR 115
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

David Murphy

Dr David Murphy is a graduate of University Colleg…

Illustrator

Graham Turner

Graham Turner is a leading historical artist, spec…

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