In this edited volume leading experts in the field of ancient combat explore the reality of inter-personal fighting from prehistory to the medieval period. Based on their experience of using reconstructed weapons and on the latest archaeological, artistic and literary evidence, they explore the real-life human experience on the battlefield as opposed to models of strategy and tactics. All aspects of combat are covered - unarmed fighting techniques, swordsmanship, archery, chariotry, pole-arms and armour, as well as aspects of human physiology and psychology in battle.