Manatarms

Manatarms is a term that historically refers to armored infantry and professional soldiers who served lords, cities, or monarchies in medieval and early modern Europe. Derived from the phrase man-at-arms, it denoted a soldier equipped for close combat and capable of operating in organized units. In some sources, the term also appears as a generic label for a lord's personal retinue of trained fighters.

In historical context, men-at-arms were typically well armed and trained, and could serve as heavy infantry or in supporting roles to mounted knights. They wore mail or early plate armor, carried shields or polearms, and fought in formations such as shield walls or spear lines. The organization varied by region and era, and many retinues included mercenaries, militia, or drafted soldiers.

In modern fantasy literature, games, and media, Manatarms is often used as a proper noun for an elite infantry unit, a mercenary company, or a royal guard. In these settings, they are usually depicted as heavily armored, disciplined, and capable of delivering heavy melee or shield-based warfare. They may be led by captains or lieutenants and form the backbone of a kingdom’s ground forces or a standalone fighting force.

Equipment and roles typically emphasize durability and shock value: armor ranging from mail to plate, swords, halberds, or pikes, and shields. They serve in assault operations, sieges, and frontier defense, blending martial skill with organizational discipline.