CHAPTER IV.. The Supremacy of Feudal Cavalry (a.d. 1066-1346).

THE SUPREMACY OF FEUDAL CAVALRY (A.D. 1066-1346).

Unscientific nature of feudal warfare.--Consequences of headlong charges.--Tactical arrangements.--Their primitive nature.--Non-existence of strategy.--Weakness of Infantry.--Attempts to introduce discipline.--Rise of Mercenaries.--Supreme importance of fortified places.-- Ascendency of the defensive.--The Mediæval siege.-- Improvement of the Arts of Attack and Defence of fortified places.--General character of Campaigns.--The Crusades 49-61