THE ENGLISH LONGBOW -- INVESTIGATING A MYTH, VOLUME 1: Performance and Employment 1298-1485

1-902031

Provides a comprehensive and balanced assessment of what was and remains the weapon that made Britain. Describes how the bow was used, sometimes successfully and sometimes not. Draws out the arguments concerning the longbow and produces a balanced and convincing summary. Opens with a detailed description of the weapon system -- the bow, arrow, and arrowheads. Shortbow-Longbow conundrum is examined in depth. The longbow's capabilities and effectiveness are evaluated using recent research allied to contemporary accounts. The part the bow played in the 'Infantry Revolution' and the longbow's relationship with the crossbow are covered. Contains 10 black and white illustrations, 100 black and white photos, 12 color illustrations, 8 color photos, 6 black and white maps, 6 figures, 30 tables, and 4 graphs.