Combat in Renaissance England

Context

• Renaissance England faced threats from Catholic superpowers, Spain and France.
• The era required advancements in military strength and weaponry.

Evolution of Weapons

• Transition from medieval to Elizabethan weapons.
• Key changes:
  • Firearms replaced bows.
  • Old commanders and military styles were phased out.
  • Literacy and numeracy became essential military skills.

Elizabethan Weapons

• Medieval Period Weapons:
  • Arbalest: Crossbow.
  • Basilard: Two-edged dagger.
  • Battle Axe: Single and double-handed.
  • Bill: Polearm with a wide blade.
  • Billhook: Sickle-shaped, used against knights.
  • Bow and Arrow.
  • Caltrop: Spikes used against horses.
  • Dagger: Short knife.
  • Halberd: Axe blade on a pole with a spear point.
  • Lance: Spear-like for horseback use.
  • Longbow: Pierced armor at 250 yards.
  • Mace: Evolved from a steel ball to spiked club.
  • Pike: Long spear (18-20 feet).
  • Poleaxe: Pole-mounted weapons with various heads.
  • Spear: Thrusting weapon.
  • Swords: Included rapier, broadsword, cutting sword, greatsword.

Role of Swords

• Nobility needed fencing skills due to social customs.
• Shift from swords to firearms, like muskets.

Armies and Soldiers

• No standing army; reliance on "Trayned Bandes" (National Guard).
• Soldiers wore civilian clothes under military gear.

Firearms

• By late 1500s, bows were replaced by muskets.
• Matchlock was the primary firearm, replaced by the flintlock.

Artillery

• Canons replaced heavy medieval artillery.
• Early canons made of bronze or iron.
• Led to the decline of castle warfare.

Armor

• Decorative use in parades and ceremonies, not practical for war.
• Knights remained relevant through tournaments.
• Tournaments featured combat methods from the medieval period.

Combat Display

• Knights from "Knight Fight" program featured in combat displays.
• Full-contact armored combat with era-specific equipment.

Additional Notes

• Replica weapons and armor can be purchased online or at festivals.
• Safety note: Swords must be peace-tied at events.