This is another example of gross numerical disparity being neutralized by high fire power, with the topography of the battlefield channeling the French and forcing them to attack piecemeal, factors that preclude the battle developing in any way other than in its historical course in 1415, if both side follow their traditional roles. Should the English casualty-inflicting powers be grossly diminished through unrealistic rules or bad dice luck, then the French cavalry attacks might cause the archers on the wings to require reinforcing from the English center. As Henry had no reserve this would gravely weakened his center, allowing French frontal attacks to achieve some success. Then, sheer weight of numbers and pressure of the Frnech forcing their way into the bottleneck would inevitably press the English back beyond the flank cover of the woods, where they would be destroyed.
Commanders Classification
Henry V and his subordinate leaders are all "above average." The French leaders can only rate a "below average" classification.
Morale
English morale was first class throughout. Prior to the battle the French were undoubtedly full of confidence but when the fighting began to take a familiar pattern and reverses occurred, there was undoubtedly a dramatic drop in their mental attitude.
Terrain
Terrain markedly influenced the entire course of the battle. Its historical outcome was molded by the singular nature of the terrain.
Military Possibilities
Largely because of the nature of the battlefield, any French tactical alternatives that might reverse the result will transform Agincourt into quite a different conflict, bearing only a titular resemblance to the historical event of 1415. The sensible tactical course would be to contain the English frontally whilst dispatching bodies of men around or through the woods on one or both flanks to catch the English in the rear. This would undoubtedly win the battle - but it would not be Agincourt!
The English archers' firepower might be diminished to allow a more even wargame. The Genoese crossbowmen might be allowed to be more effective. French artillery could be used. The French might have made a sudden attack during the time when the English were moving forward, possibly catching them without their stakes planted in position. However, the muddy nature of the ground and the well-known French lack of tactical ingenuity would seem to rule out this eventuality.
Related
100 Years War Campaign by Don Featherstone
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© Copyright 2004 Hal Thinglum
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