Latin Siege Warfare in the Twelfth Century

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Clarendon Press, Jun 26, 1997 - 304 pages
This is a carefully researched and illuminating study of siege warfare in the twelfth century. The siege was an integral part of medieval military experience, and was particularly significant in the Mediterranean region. Dr Rogers explores siege warfare and the role it played in the First Crusade and the establishment of the Crusader States, in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, and in the seaborne expeditions of the Italian maritime states. Dr Rogers sets out to discover how it was that crusading forces handicapped by rudimentary organisation and logistical support were able to conduct some of the most dramatic siege operations of the pre-gunpowder period. He traces the development and diffusion of techniques; and analyses the experience of siege warfare in every aspect, from the question of supplies of component parts for siege engines to the often complex political situations of besieger and besieged. This is a book which contributes not only to the military history of the twelfth century but also to its political and cultural history. `excellent work, written by a scholar who has a thorough grasp of the subject and who presents it in a lucid manner.' Speculum `an excellent work ... a fine study, full of intriguing ideas for readers interested in crusading, municipalities, and the role of warfare.' The Historian `Rogers's book is an excellent look at the medieval world's most bellicose century.' American Historical Review
 

Contents

LATIN SIEGE WARFARE IN THE FIRST CRUSADE
10
THE CAPTURE OF THE PALESTINIAN COAST AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF CRUSADER SIEGE TECHNIQUE
64
SIEGE OPERATIONS IN THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NORMAN AUTHORITY IN ITALY AND SICILY
91
CITIES AND SIEGE WARFARE LOMBARDY IN THE TWELFTH CENTURY
124
SIEGE WARFARE IN THE IBERIAN RECONQUISTA
154
SEABORNE SIEGE WARFARE THE ITALIAN MARITIME STATES AND LATIN EXPANSION
193
TOWARDS CONCLUSIONS
237
Appendix I Evidence for Crusader Siege Towers 10991169
249
General Descriptions and Terms
251
Appendix III The Problem of Artillery
254
BIBLIOGRAPHY
274
INDEX
289
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