NM-20B - Norman Spearman

🏰 Who the Normans were

The Normans were a medieval warrior people originating from Viking settlers in northern France (Normandy). They became one of the most influential military forces in medieval Europe.

They are commonly associated with:

• Normans
• The conquest of England in 1066 under William the Conqueror
• Expansion into England, Italy, and parts of the Mediterranean

🛡️ What a Norman spearman did

A Norman spearman was usually part of the infantry line and would:

• Fight in tight shield formations
• Use a spear (or short lance) for thrusting attacks
• Support cavalry charges by holding defensive lines
• Protect archers and crossbowmen behind them

⚔️ Weapons and equipment

Typical gear included:

• Long spear or thrusting lance
• Kite-shaped shield (designed for mounted and infantry use)
• Chainmail armour (hauberk)
• Conical nasal helmet
• Occasionally a sword as a sidearm

🧭 Battlefield role

Norman spearmen were essential because they:

• Formed the backbone of medieval armies
• Held enemy forces in place for cavalry to strike
• Created disciplined shield walls in battle
• Provided stability in both offensive and defensive actions

They fought in famous battles such as:

• Battle of Hastings

🧭 In summary

A Norman Spearman is:

• A medieval infantry soldier from Norman armies
• Equipped with spear, shield, and chainmail
• Used in shield-wall tactics and battlefield support roles
• A key part of the Norman military system during the Middle Ages

Brand: John Jenkins