Agincourt field england

Agincourt field in northern France, site of the famous 1415 battle between English and French during the Hundred Years' War.

About this subject

The field of Agincourt, located in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, was the setting for one of the most iconic battles of the Hundred Years' War. On October 25, 1415, the English army led by King Henry V faced a numerically superior French force. The English victory, despite the numerical disadvantage, became legendary due to the effective use of longbow archers against the French heavy cavalry.

The battle took place on open agricultural land, with severe muddy conditions that hindered the mobility of French troops. The English army is estimated to have numbered between 6,000 and 9,000 men, while the French assembled between 12,000 and 36,000. Henry V's tactic involved positioning his archers behind sharpened stakes to protect the infantry, using the muddy terrain to slow the French advance.

Agincourt's cultural impact is profound, immortalized by William Shakespeare in his play "Henry V," where the king's speech before the battle is one of literature's most famous. The site now hosts a memorial and visitor center, attracting historians and tourists interested in the medieval period. The battle also influenced later military tactics, highlighting the importance of mobility and discipline over sheer numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the Agincourt field?

The field lies near the modern village of Azincourt in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, about 30 km north of Arras.

How many soldiers died at the Battle of Agincourt?

French casualties are estimated between 7,000 and 10,000, including many nobles, while the English lost about 400 to 600 soldiers.

What was the main English weapon in the battle?

The English longbow, capable of shooting arrows with high precision and force up to 250 meters, was decisive for the victory.