The origins of the Picts are an interesting and hotly debated topic. Fundamentally, they were Celts, and numerous similarities exist between Welsh, Irish and British contemporaries. Their role as an enemy of Rome and their place in Dark Age Britain is often underrated. The Pictish warrior was not "ordinary" - he was noble - and warfare was enshrined in law as the duty and privilege of the landed aristocracy only. The warrior, whether one of the king's household troop, or a member of a wandering mercenary band, was part of an identifiable and close-knit unit. In these fraternities the warriors lived, ate, slept, fought and died together. This volume shows how, despite this, group cohesion does not seem to have been a military strong point and the emphasis for the warrior was on individual skill in single combat.

Author Biography

Paul Wagner has had a life-long interest in Pictish and Caledonian culture, encompassing both social and military history. He has spent many years personally researching key aspects, from weaponry and tactics to art and social mores. A native of New South Wales, Australia, he is currently studying for a PhD in natural history. Wayne Reynolds was born in Leeds, UK, where he also attended art college. He has had a life-long passion for illustration, and since 1991 has worked as a professional artist. Wayne has provided illustrations for many garning companies, creating figures, landscapes and interiors, as well as core characterisation. He is perhaps best known or his work on titles such as 2000AD. Slaine, and Judge Dredd. Wayne is a keen modeller and historical re-enactor.