THE NORMANS IN ITALY 1017-1194

◗ Raffaele D’Amato

◗ Osprey (2020)

◗ £11.99

◗ 48 pages (softback)

◗ ISBN:9781472839466

◗ ospreypublishing.com

This is a solid traditional ‘Men-at-Arms’ volume, by a good writer, and offering an emphasis on clothing, weapons and equipment, supported by short chapters on the politico-strategic background and the military organisation of the Normans. Illustrations are clear, and even I could paint most of the shield designs. The usual eight colour plates offer not only the Norman troops but also allies and opponents, adding value for the wargamer – an eclectic mix of Normans, Swabians, Muslims, Byzantine Greeks, plus local militia-type troops. There are two battle accounts (Civitate 1053 and Andria 1155), but each is only a page: the strength of this book lies in its description of the troops.

An interesting period, with good opportunities for a campaign involving more than two sides and with no great dent in your wallet, as most main armies were just a few thousand men strong. It was a period of emerging dynasties versus old, and with a wide range of troop types, weaponry, and armour values, so battles or skirmishes will be quite different depending on the opposing forces. Nicely done.