Jean Errard (1554-1610) was a mathematician and military engineer who developed and published the fundamental work on fortification design and defense strategy in France. Although largely forgotten now, he was referred to as the “Father of French fortification”. The typical medieval fortress and castle design of the past centuries focused on the construction of high walls to repel attacks from soldiers below. However, with the introduction of artillery, tall walls were vulnerable and could not withstand the heavy bombardment. Errard studied Italian fortifications, which became the foundation for his own design strategy. The solution presented by Errard was short, sloping, thick walls organized in polygons. These star-like fortress, with protrusions at sharp angles, provided advantages to the defenders. The pointed bastions offered more open sight lines, allowing support from adjacent bastions during an attack. The combinations of structure and design negated the artillery advantage. In addition to his engineering skills, Errard recommended the use of infantry and musket as the best defense of the fortification. In his view, the infantry and musket was more versatile and maneuverable than artillery, and used less gunpowder. Errard’s book shifted the military paradigm from mechanical to scientific, allowing for modernization and innovation in the art of warfare.
- Description:
- Errard, J. La fortification reduicte en art et demonstree. Francfort sur le Mein : W. Richter, 1604.
- Persistent Link:
- http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:FHCL:10937243
- Repository:
- Widener Library
- Institution:
- Harvard University