Thank you very much for your response regarding the archers and their draw weights. Segueing into swordplay, did the warriors of Uhtred’s time (and all times, I guess) have massively developed musculature of their sword arm? Would the shield arm also be equally developed? BTW, some of my undergraduate work was in Old English. I particularly appreciate the way the Uhtred books often have the rhythms, cadences and alliteration of the Norse Eddur. As a geologist, I enjoy your descriptions of how geology often determines the outcome of a battle. Finally, Thank you for the wonderful Saxon series. I have read and re-read each volume and remain completely enchanted!

Jennifer