Times, siege warfare was a military science called po-liorcetics by the Ancient Greeks. It has been widely used throughout history because victory frequently depends on the seizure of strongholds, fortresses and towns. This was particularly clear in the Middle Ages when rural castles were the basic political, administrative and economical structure of life.
The purpose of a siege was not necessarily the destruction of the besieged target. The aim might be to bring a rebellious vassal back to submission, or to obtain political and economic compromise. Entrenched behind high walls, defenders were in theory in an advantageous position. History shows, however, that reputedly inexpugnable fortresses, defended by regiments, sometimes fell at the blast of a single trumpet. On the other hand, some modest fortified place, garrisoned by a handful of half-starving men, might for months resist a whole army. High walls were not always sufficient to stop enemies; the outcome of a siege depended a great deal on many factors such as physical courage, individual bravery, logistical preparation, morale, determination and pugnacity.
Besiegers might use several means to achieve the seizure of a fortified place. They could impose capitulation by displaying their force and threatening terrible retaliation (pillage, fire, rape and general massacre). They could launch a surprise attack or a discreet assault at night. They could also infiltrate parties disguised as merchants, pilgrims, traders or travelers in need of assistance. Once inside, the posing party could open the door to armed comrades waiting hidden outside. For this reason all strangers were regarded with suspicion.
Besiegers might also profit from internal quarrels among the defenders and negotiate various advantages with one or the other. What would wars be without traitors? If wars proceeded by mathematical formulae, the side with the best strategists, the bravest soldiers and the most powerful weapons would invariably win. But this is never the case, and treachery is the evil genius of war. Treachery throws a spanner in the works and sweeps plans of genius off the campaigning table. It turns heroism and the art of warfare, the supremacy of weapons and the courage of soldiers in the face of death into a
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