Kite Shield

Definition

A kite shield is a type of elongated, oval-shaped shield that was commonly used during the Viking Age, characterized by its tapered bottom that extends downwards. This design allowed for improved protection of the legs during combat while maintaining a larger surface area for defense against various weapons. Kite shields were typically made of wood and covered with leather or fabric, sometimes reinforced with metal edges, making them both lightweight and effective in battle.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kite shields were typically about 1.2 to 1.5 meters long and were designed to provide optimal coverage for the user during combat.
2. They were often painted with vibrant colors or symbols, which not only served aesthetic purposes but also helped to identify individual warriors or their clans on the battlefield.
3. The kite shape allowed warriors to use these shields effectively for both offensive and defensive maneuvers, making them versatile in various combat scenarios.
4. Many kite shields featured a grip on the back, allowing for greater maneuverability and ease of handling during battle.
5. These shields became less common by the late Viking Age as new designs emerged, but they significantly influenced shield design in later medieval periods.

Review Questions

• How did the design of the kite shield influence combat strategies during the Viking Age?
  • The kite shield's elongated shape provided extended protection for warriors' bodies, particularly their legs, allowing them to adopt more aggressive fighting styles without sacrificing safety. Its larger surface area meant that it could effectively defend against incoming attacks while enabling warriors to engage enemies more confidently. This design facilitated tactics that involved both offense and defense simultaneously, as warriors could shield themselves from blows while moving forward in battle.
• Compare the kite shield with other types of shields used during the Viking Age, discussing their respective advantages and disadvantages.
  • The kite shield and round shield represent two distinct approaches to defense in Viking warfare. The kite shield offers greater coverage and leg protection due to its elongated design, making it suitable for mounted combat and foot soldiers alike. In contrast, the round shield is lighter and more maneuverable, allowing for quick adjustments in battle but providing less lower body protection. While kite shields were better suited for forming defensive lines, round shields excelled in close-quarters combat due to their ease of handling.
• Evaluate the cultural significance of decorative elements on kite shields in Viking society.
  • The decorative elements on kite shields played a critical role in Viking culture, as they conveyed messages about identity, status, and allegiance. The use of bright colors and specific symbols could signify clan affiliation or personal achievements in battle, fostering a sense of unity among warriors. These designs were not only functional in marking individuals on the battlefield but also held deep cultural value, contributing to the overall warrior ethos of bravery and honor that defined Viking society.

Related terms

Round Shield: A circular shield that was also popular during the Viking Age, often made from wood and used primarily for close combat.

Shield Boss: A metal dome that was affixed to the center of a shield, providing additional strength and protection while also serving as a handgrip for the warrior.

Viking Warfare: The strategies and tactics employed by Vikings in battle, which included the use of shields, swords, axes, and other weapons in coordinated assaults.