The Book of Deeds of Arms and of Chivalry: by Christine de Pizan

During the late 14th and early 15th century in which Pizan lived, it was not common for women to write book (which she wrote 41) and it was even more unbelievable for a woman to write a manual for warfare, arms, and chivalry., which see did in [b:The Book of Deeds of Arms and of Chivalry|913719|The Book of Deeds of Arms and of Chivalry|Christine de Pizan|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1369161706s/913719.jpg|898817].

Using prior manuals as reference and also advisers, she discusses such topics as who has the right to declare war, what is a just war, the rules of engagement, and the law surrounding different aspects of war. She give outlines of how to attack and how to protect fortified cities, the weaponry needed, supplies needed and show more more.

My favorite part was the examples of chivalry in prior wars, such as Julius Caesar, Hannibal, Cicero and many others. This was the only part that did not read like a manual. When discussing the laws of war, it is done in a question and answer format. She poses a questions and a legal and rational answer is given for the situation she has outlined.

I learned a bit about history, much about how cities were attacked and how the were defended, and the definition of some terms. A legion was considered 6,666 men.

Very interesting but not a riveting or great read. I do recommend the examples of chivalry (basically bravery, not holding doors open for women) in prior wars. The stories and strategy was funny, amazing, and enlightening. show less

Contemporary accounts and chronicles of certain periods have always fascinated me. Many manuscripts and works are unknown to me and I am always on the lookout for new ones. Most I aquire and read are referenced in others books about that particular mind. That is how I discovered this particular work.
Much is made that a book containing strategic warfare during the Middle Ages was written by a woman. Today, not such a big deal, but at the time groundbreaking and unusual. It seem to me that Ms. Pizan just loved writting and was very prolific with it. After one gets into this work a bit, one sees that it probably was not a mammoth effort on her part to produce this book.
The book begins a little dryly but should be held in the context that show more you are exploring the mindset of someone who lived over 600 years ago, which in itself, lends itself valuable to the study of that period's mindset.
She then begins to recount various strategems and tactics used by the Ancients and Romans during their respective campaigns and battles. By far the most interesting and readable part of the book.
The latter half of the book I found tedious as she imparts upon the reader an imaginary discussion she has with Honore Bonet, the author of The Tree of Battles. If you have read The Tree of Battles, they prepare to read some of it again. It is nearly verbatum and covers no new ground.
I gave this book 3 starts for historical ambiance value and overall counsel. show less

Reprint. Orig. publ. London : Humphrey Milford, Oxford University Press, 1932