Since the birth of humans, there has been rivalry. Even in the ancient days, there was always a desire for self-protection against any violence and threats. It is no surprise why the shield was invented. In the Middle Ages, it came in the form of crude armor. These shields were commonly small and round objects primarily used for close-range combat. Over years, this weapon was transformed into something more advanced and has adapted different shapes and sizes. Certain features were incorporated in these shields for practical purposes such as handles. You may want to take a look at Historic Outlook of Shield Origin for more information. Well, let’s discuss some of the popular medieval shields you would like to know about.
Anglo Saxon Shield
In the 5th century, Anglo Saxons entered Britain and soon became a dominant power. They have ruled the land for more than six centuries. The military culture initiated the concept of Anglo Saxon armor and shield remains popular on the battlefield. They were found in different sizes, though most of them were circular. Ranging from 1-3 feet, they were commonly used in combats especially in the close-quarter range.
Buckler Shield
It’s a small medieval shield that has received massive popularity in medieval times. This small-size shield is best-suited for hand-to-hand battle since it’s incredibly easy to handle. They were designed to deflect any attacking blades and can be effortlessly controlled for their lightweight structure. The primary shape of the shield was round. However, you can also find some rectangular versions. We can say that these were the most prevalent defensive weapons in the middle and late primitive eras.
Cavalry Shield
The Cavalry is a crucial armed unit that soon evolved into the knight category. Arguably, they were regarded as the most important part of the military. It is even said that they can make or break the battle. Initially, they owned relatively simple weaponry. With the innovations involved especially among the shields, the cavalry shields became highly popular among the horse regiment troops. The two most renowned cavalry shields we would mention are the heater shield and kite shield.
Pavise Shield
The Pavise shield is a large and convex-shaped shield used between the 14-16th centuries. They were popular among infantry combatants, archers and crossbowmen. Apart from being used on the battleground, they were further used for siege and attack purposes as well. Measuring from 4-5 feet, they could cover the entire body. Soldiers could position themselves upright to defend themselves from any incoming arrows.
Knight Shield
It is interesting to see the evolving military culture. Most of the early medieval shields were round in shape and typically built from wood incorporating leather reinforcements. With knights becoming a critical military body on the combat ground, we have seen more elaborate shield designs featuring robust materials. In the 16th century, there were equilateral triangular shape shields existed as well that used metallic roundels and remarkable inlays.
Medieval shields were found in multiple versions. From foot soldiers to archers and knights, they were commonly used for defensive purposes. With variations in body armor, these shields were further evolved. Are you familiar with any ancient shield variations other than the ones we have listed above? If yes, do let us know in the comment section below.
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