Global Military History Marking Period 2 Projects

Project #1:  Anglo-Saxon/Viking shield

For this project you are to construct a shield typical of the Anglo-Saxon/Viking period (600-1000 C.E.).  The specific requirements are as follows:

• your shield should be made of sturdy material--heavy/layered cardboard would work well; you can use wood if you really want to be authentic (but that is not required)
• your shield should be constructed out of "planks" that are then assembled to make the shield 
• your shield should be round with a diameter of 31-36 inches
• you shield must include a handle/grip that will allow you to carry it effectively.  Shields of this sort typically had a single handle for the hand to grip, though you may include a strap of some sort if you choose.
• Fashioning a shield boss is optional (the round, bowl looking piece on the center of the shield
• Edging your shield is also optional (though duct tape would work really well for that)
• Your shied should be decorated using one of more of the following motifs:
• Anglo-Saxon:
• Wild Boars
• Dragons
• Warriors
• Trees
• Knotwork/pattern
• Viking:
• Ravens
• Wolves
• Eagles
• Rams
• Dragons
• Longships
• weapons of the gods:  spear for Odin; hammer for Thor
• Knotwork/pattern
• Check out these links for examples/inspiration:
• Anglo-Saxon: 
•  https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GPCK_enUS550US550&hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1280&bih=685&q=viking+shield+designs&oq=Viking+shield&gs_l=img.1.1.0l10.950.3901.0.6143.13.9.0.4.4.0.162.805.7j2.9.0....0...1ac.1.31.img..0.13.843.N1n4gybvR04#hl=en&q=anglo-saxon+shield+designs&tbm=isch
• Viking:
• https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GPCK_enUS550US550&hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1280&bih=685&q=viking+shield+designs&oq=Viking+shield&gs_l=img.1.1.0l10.950.3901.0.6143.13.9.0.4.4.0.162.805.7j2.9.0....0...1ac.1.31.img..0.13.843.N1n4gybvR04#hl=en&q=viking+shield+designs&tbm=isch

Your shield is due on Monday, December 9th

Your grade will be based on the shield's durability and functionality and the quality of the design.

Project #2:  Siege Engine

For this project you are to construct a functioning model of an ancient/medieval siege engine.  You are to design and construct this siege engine yourself based upon historical examples.  The goal is to represent the original engine as accurately as possible, though you are allowed to use modern materials and add your own touches/improvements to the design.  

The specific requirements are as follows:

• You must be able to transport your model into the school and easily move it throughout the school/outside with only minor disassembly.  Otherwise, there are no size/weight restrictions.
• The model must function
• The model must be your design (not built from a pre-existing kit)
• The model must be based on and reflect a historical siege engine
• You may work with up to one partner--that is optional though let me know if you do intend to work as partners with someone else
• You have your choice of one of the following (your model must be one of these--a projectile/s must also be included):
• ballista 
• onager/catapult
• trebuchet 

Your model is due on Monday, January 13

Your grade will be based on the quality, historical accuracy, and functionality of your engine