- 274
Smythe, Sir John
Estimate
3,000 - 5,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- Certain discourses, Written by Sir John Smythe, Knight: concerning the formes and effects of divers sorts of weapons, and other verie important matters militarie, greatlie mistaken by divers of our men of warre in these daies; and chiefly, of the mosquet, the caliver and the long-bow; as also, of the great sufficiencie, excellencie, and wonderful effects of archers... London: Richard Johnes, 1590
- paper, ink, leather
4to (172 x 130 mm). Faint dampstain in upper margin of a few leaves. Eighteenth-century quarter Russia, gilt-ruled.
Literature
STC 22883; Spaulding & Karpinski 47
Catalogue Note
At the heart of Smythe's Discourses is a fervid plea for the retention of the longbow as the weapon of choice for the English soldier. Citing both modern and ancient sources. Smythe recalls great victories won by the bow and associates its use with true manliness and military power. Although not opposed to modern armorial developments per se, Smythe implies that setting aside the longbow would result in the setting aside of English military dominance. The work was repressed by Elizabeth's minister Lord Burghley.