Armour and Blade is a compelling exploration of the perpetual technological arms race between humanity’s means of offence and methods of protection. S. E. Ellacott provides a comprehensive history of this dynamic struggle, charting the evolution from primitive Stone Age flint daggers and leather-protected warriors to the complex engineering of medieval plate armour.
Moving beyond personal equipment, the narrative transitions into the modern era, examining how the principles of attack and defence were adapted for the machines of industrial warfare, including battleships and tanks. As a member of the Arms and Armour Society, Mr. Ellacott writes with authority, offering a lucid and fascinating account that is enriched by his own detailed, high-clarity illustrations. Whether detailing the subtle craftsmanship of a sword’s development or the strategic necessity of modern armoured vehicles, the book serves as an invaluable introduction for any reader intrigued by military history and the ingenuity of human invention. This is a vivid account of how society has continuously refined its arsenal, reflecting the constant, shifting battle between the sword and the shield.
Used (good, see images, dust jacket wear, dust jacket tear, and some initial pages marking) Hardcover
