Fantasy writing & worldbuilding: The Ultimate Guide to War!

Introduction

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on incorporating warfare into your fantasy writing and worldbuilding. Warfare is a pivotal theme in many epic narratives, and understanding its elements can enhance the depth and realism of your stories. In this tutorial, we will explore various aspects of war, including equipment, strategies, recruitment, and the aftermath, providing you with actionable insights to enrich your fantasy world.

Chapter 1: Equipment of War

Understanding the equipment used in warfare is essential for creating a believable fantasy setting. Here are the key categories to consider:

• Personal Armor:

  • Types include leather, chain mail, plate armor, and modern equivalents like Kevlar.
  • Unique pieces such as aventails (protects the shoulders and throat) and vambraces (arm guards) can add authenticity.

• Weapons:

  • Melee Weapons: Swords, axes, and spears.
  • Ranged Weapons: Bows, crossbows, and slings (historically significant).
  • Defensive Equipment: Shields, which can also be used offensively.

• Combat Vehicles:

  • Consider the use of chariots in Bronze Age warfare and how they evolved into modern vehicles like tanks and aircraft.

• Fortifications:

  • Structures like castles and walls play a critical role in defense strategies. Think about the design and purpose of various fortifications.

Chapter 2: Bronze Age Vehicles

Explore the significance of vehicles in warfare, particularly during the Bronze Age.

• Chariots:
  • Two-wheeled vehicles that revolutionized mobility and tactics on the battlefield. Include their historical context and importance in your fantasy narrative.
• Organizational Structure:
  • Understand how armies were organized, such as infantry, cavalry, and archers, and how logistics supported them.

Chapter 3: Recruitment

Recruiting soldiers can significantly impact your story's dynamics. Consider the following recruitment models:

• Citizen Militias:

  • Model your armies after historical examples like Athens' military service requirements.

• Professional Armies:

  • Explore how state-supported soldiers differ from mercenaries and how they can expand territories.

• Feudal Systems:

  • How nobles call upon vassals to provide soldiers, often depicted in works by Tolkien and Martin.

Chapter 4: Logistics and Support

Logistics are vital for sustaining an army. Ensure you include:

• Supply Chains:

  • Food, weapons, and medical supplies are essential. Consider magical elements for efficiency.

• Transportation:

  • Assess how armies move their troops and equipment, whether through traditional means or magical transportation.

• Medical Support:

  • Healers and medical tents can keep morale high and maintain troop effectiveness.

Chapter 5: Conduct of War

Dive into the strategies and complexities of warfare:

• Phases of War:

  • Understand that wars consist of multiple battles and skirmishes, not just one decisive conflict.

• Morale and Momentum:

  • Highlight how victories and defeats can shift the morale of troops, influencing the conflict's outcome.

Chapter 6: The Aftermath of War

War leaves lasting impacts on societies. Consider:

• Cultural Changes:

  • How does losing a war affect a culture? Explore themes of bitterness, revenge, and recovery, drawing from historical examples.

• Political Implications:

  • Examine how the political landscape changes post-war, such as the rise of new powers or the collapse of empires.

Chapter 7: Mistakes to Avoid

As you write about war, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Neglecting Logistics:

  • Ensure your narrative addresses the complexities of supplying and maintaining an army.

• Ignoring Morale:

  • Don't overlook how the emotional state of troops affects their performance.

• Oversimplifying Battles:

  • Avoid presenting battles as clean cut; embrace the chaos and complexity of real warfare.

• Environmental Factors:

  • Consider how weather and terrain impact military strategies and outcomes.

Conclusion

Incorporating warfare into your fantasy world involves careful consideration of equipment, recruitment, logistics, and the lasting effects of conflict on societies. By understanding these elements and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a rich, immersive narrative that resonates with readers. Begin by integrating these insights into your writing and watch your fantasy world come alive with the intricacies of war. Happy writing!