Deception in Medieval Warfare: Trickery and Cunning in the Central Middle Ages

This book is the first full-length study of the use and perception of deceit in medieval warfare, looking at tricks reported in medieval chronicles and what contemporary society thought about it. It reveals a society with a moral ambivalence towards military deception, in which authors were able to celebrate a warrior's cunning while simultaneously condemning their enemies for similar acts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 05 March 2024
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

The use of deception and trickery in medieval warfare has been extensively studied, with this book being the first comprehensive exploration of its prevalence and perception during that era. From the legendary Trojan horse to the innovative inflatable tanks employed in World War II, deception has been a fundamental aspect of warfare throughout history. The Central Middle Ages (c. 1000-1320) were no exception, as evidenced by the numerous tricks reported in medieval chronicles.

In the battle of Hastings (1066), the Normans employed a clever ruse by feigning flight, intending to draw the English troops away from Senlac Hill. Similarly, in the Field of Blood (1119), the Turks infiltrated the Frankish camp disguised as bird sellers, creating confusion and chaos within the enemy ranks. The Scots, in their victory at the Battle of Bannockburn (1314), displayed their ingenuity by waving laundry as banners, mimicking a division of soldiers to deceive the opposing forces.

This study delves into the prevailing attitudes towards deception on the medieval battlefield. Was it considered a legitimate strategy to gain an advantage? Did cunning and deceit earn admiration among warriors? Were non-Western cultures perceived as more deceitful in warfare compared to Western Europeans? To answer these questions, the book employs a detailed analysis of vocabulary and narrative devices. It reveals a society grappling with profound moral ambivalence towards military deception, where authors could celebrate a warrior's cunning while simultaneously condemning their enemies for similar acts.

Furthermore, the book includes an appendix that catalogs over four hundred incidents of military deception as recorded in contemporary chronicle narratives. These incidents provide a rich source of information and shed light on the diverse strategies and tactics employed by medieval armies.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of medieval warfare, providing a comprehensive exploration of the use and perception of deception. It sheds light on the complex moral dilemmas faced by medieval soldiers and commanders, as well as the cultural and religious factors that influenced their attitudes towards deception. Through its detailed analysis and comprehensive cataloging of incidents, this book provides a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of medieval history.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781837651313