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Rating: 
Summary: Too simplistic
Review: Mr OMAN views are very seriously outdated. This book might serve as an introduction but lacks analysis and accuracy.
Rating: 
Summary: A historical document in its own right
Review: The Art of War in the Middle Ages was first published in 1885 in Oxford and London. A revised edition was re-published in 1953, with indicators of revisions included in the text. This particular portion is true to the original, using particular terminology. It is part of the section that deals with the "arms, organization and tactics of the Byzantine armies". The 19th century scientist uses the term "Macedonians" as a synonum for "semi-Romanized Slavs" of the early Middle Ages, a proof against the claims of anti-Macedonian propagandists who attempt to portray the Macedonian people as a recent "invention." A quote:"It would appear that Maurice had intended to break down the barrier which has been imposed in the fourth century between the class which paid the taxes and that which recruited the national army. "We wish," he writes, "that every young Roman of free condition should learn to use the bow, and should be constantly provided with that weapon and with two javelins." If, however, this was intended to be the first step toward the introduction of universal military service, the design was never carried any further. Three hudnred years later Leo is found echoing the same words, as a pious wish rather than as a practical expedient. The rank and file, however, of the imperial forces were now raised almost entirely within the realm, and well-nigh every nation contained in its limits, except the Greeks, furnished a considerable number of soldiers. The Armenians and Isaurians in Asia and the Thracians and Macedonians--or more properly the semi-Romanized Slavs--in Europe were considered the best material by the recruiting officer." The whole book is enjoyable and provides intelligeble analysis of military matters. The "100 year war" part is especially memorable and well laid-out.
Rating:
Summary: immensely readable
Review: This is an excellent and fascinating work. I highly recomend it for anyone interested in warfare, the middle ages, or both. It is full of well-researched insights and synthesizes and provides a broad general framework for understanding warfare in this period. Serious scholars or those seeking to use this as a textbook should note that the original version that forms the basis of this book was written a century ago and is probably outdated, despite the rewritten portions. However, the greatest strength of this book is that it is extraordinarily well-written, and a pleasure to read.
Rating:
Summary: immensely readable
Review: This is an excellent and fascinating work. I highly recomend it for anyone interested in warfare, the middle ages, or both. It is full of well-researched insights and synthesizes and provides a broad general framework for understanding warfare in this period. Serious scholars or those seeking to use this as a textbook should note that the original version that forms the basis of this book was written a century ago and is probably outdated, despite the rewritten portions. However, the greatest strength of this book is that it is extraordinarily well-written, and a pleasure to read.
Rating:
Summary: Outdated
Review: Well written and interesting, but very outdated. You're better off with Keen's new _Medieval Warfare_ or Verbruggen or R.C. Smail (Crusading Warfare) or France's new book.
Rating:
Summary: Outdated
Review: Well written and interesting, but very outdated. You're better off with Keen's new _Medieval Warfare_ or Verbruggen or R.C. Smail (Crusading Warfare) or France's new book.
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