Messenger Longsword Society
Guide to Heraldry
Welcome, young herald, to the Messenger's guide to heraldry. Here you will learn the basic elements used in the construction of heraldic designs.
Briefly 'Heraldry is the science and art of describing coats-of-arms (also referred to as "armorial bearings" or simply as "arms").' The laymen's interpretation of our labours is that it was used to mark out men in battle, as well as tournaments. This is only true to a certain extent however as 'flags flying high above a battle field were far more effective for identification and as rallying points than any device borne close to the ground' . Also in a battle the fighting knights were unlikely to recognise more than a few of the most important designs and apart from the race of their opponent be unable to determine anything more, and in the midst of melee be unable to consult a herald on the identity, standing and bloodlines of their opponents.
Tournaments are a different matter of course, and when the herald really came into their own, providing information on their masters opponents which, with their pride, most knights will not gather, for spying is beneath there noble bearing! A lucky few heralds will be called to administrate in the 'College of Arms' itself, the governing body of the heraldic world in this glorious kingdom of England. In these roles you will be responsible for issuing new arms to worthy warriors, redesigning current arms as different families intermarry, and ensuring that none of the peasant riffraff adopt a coat-of-arms, an honour far above their inconsequential stations.
Your efforts will help to simplify noble combat as well as keeping detailed genealogical records, which prevent messy legal and physical battles over inheritance, an occupation that serves the realm well.
Long Live the King!
Lessons 1 and 2. Grades and Terminology
Beginner's Guide to Heraldry, compiled by Sam Gibbs.
Sources taken from:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heraldry
Medieval Warfare, H.W. Koch et al, Bison Books, 1978