Game of Thrones battle review by scholagladiatoria

[Qhorin Halfhand and Yoren]

 

What? A review of the battle in this game of thrones episode by a Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) expert who runs a youtube channel that focuses on medieval historical weapons and armor. The review focuses on issues such as the the tactics they used or their equipment.

I enjoyed the review, and thought that others here could get something from it as well.

It's been a few hours since I seen it but a few of the main points:

Jon Snow's army has some problems in terms of their efficiency and capability.

1. The lack of helmets is a big issue since helmets is one  of the most crucial defensive equipment.
2. The lack of shields in Jon Snow's camp. And the lack of polearms.
3. The lack of equipment by the Giant, who with the proper equipment such as a shield or perhaps a club, could be a much more powerful force, and could cut through the enemy lines.

Some other points:

1. There is no historical example of a medieval battle following Ramsay's tactic of ordering his archers to shoot towards the enemy but also his own men.
2. By charging Jon Snow might be avoiding arrows aimed at longer range, though later he is in a lose-lose situation without any good options.
3. Armor should be more effective than depicted in the show.