Why was this Pollaxe made, and how was it used?
Amanda Sopchockchai, Class of 2027, College of the Holy Cross
This pollaxe was made for a knight or other man-of-arms to bring into battle. A pollaxe was designed for armored combat on foot, which might take place either during war or a tournament. The blade could deliver a powerful blow to cleave or pierce steel, the hammer could dent or break armor, and the spear tip could thrust between the steel plates. These plates were not the knight's only defense: mail armor was worn underneath to cover the gaps at places like the armpit and elbow, and the knight also wore a padded jacket underneath for additional cushioning. Below is an illustration of a knight besting his opponent with the thrusting tip of a pollaxe.
