Heroic Dreams - All Things Medieval

Today we take a look at one of the most interesting parts of a knight’s armor - the helmet.

Thinking about the medieval helmet a very specific image comes to mind. That is the image of the rounded and shiny helmet with a visor that lowers. This is the kind of helmet associated with jousting tournaments. But the Medieval Helmet was something that developed slowly over the centuries of the middle ages.

There were two very important factors that guided this development of helmets: the metalworking technology and tools that were available and the blacksmiths understanding of the physics of combat.

This is a good example of an early period Medieval Helmet. Notice how it is composed of sheets of thin metal all riveted together. This was the extent of the blacksmith’s skill at the time. And the metal was also thin and not as strong as metal in later centuries.Black Knight Great Helm

Here is an example of a helmet from a later period. The craftsmanship is much better and the shape is more comfortable for a knight to wear, The metal is thicker and stronger and with the rounded shapes it was much more effective in defelecting blows from all angles.

Valor - Helmet Eur Burgeont Mini w/face guard 8″

Another Important aspect of the Medieval Helmet is the Psychological Factor: A Helmet made a statement and could have an effect on the opponent. THis was an early introduction to psychological warfare.

A helmet like this could increase the fear in an enemy because it was scary, and it made the wearer look taller and meaner! MINI VIKING HORN HELMET

Want to Learn More about MedievalHelmets? Medieval Helmets, their development and psychology at Epic fantasy.com

Interested in Medieval Knights? Check out my new website: The Knight-Medieval

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