Osprey Warrior 10 : Saracen Faris 1050-1250 AD

Saracen Faris 1050-1250 AD deals with an important period in the history of the Middle East. Not only were the 12th and 13th centuries punctuated by European Crusades but, even more significant, the mid-11th century saw the invasion of the Saljuq Turks and the mid-13th century witnessed a devastating Mongol assault. Crucial to the Middle Eastern forces involved in these struggles was professional cavalry. The professional cavalryman was generally known as a faris or 'horseman' in Arabic, a word that carried overtones similar to - though not identical with - the Western European knight. A faris' training was far more wide-ranging than that of a contemporary European knight, including as it did the use of horse-archery and the ability to fight on foot as well as general horsemanship and the use of the lance and sword. David Nicolle presents a detailed view of these versatile warriors. Their wide-ranging ethnic and tribal origins are investigated as is their training and living arrangements. He examines the differences in equipment and outlook between the Turkish, Arab and Persian soldiers and also between the faris and their Western adversaries; the Crusader knights. The book goes into much detail, even delving into such interesting subjects as Muslim arms manufacture and male head-dress. This comprehensive account is completed by a list of museums and bibliography. Illustrations by Christa Hook.

Contents

• Introduction
• Chronology
• Origins and Recruitment
• Training
• Home and Barracks
• Military Careers
• On Campaign
• Arms and Armour