Offspring Of Mars. A Military History of the Knights of Malta, 1614–1714

 

If you think the story of the Knights of Malta ends after the Great Siege of 1565, Emanuel Buttigieg’s Offspring of Mars: A Military History of the Knights of Malta, 1614–1714 is here to prove you wrong in the best way possible! Part of Helion’s popular  and ever-expanding ‘Century of the Soldier’ series, this book tackles a fascinating, often overlooked century of Knights Hospitaller history with genuine enthusiasm and meticulous detail.  

What makes this book such an enjoyable read is how seamlessly Buttigieg bridges academic research with vivid historical storytelling. Instead of dry dates and statistics, he paints a complete picture of how the order evolved into a formidable, professionalised military and naval force operating in a rapidly changing Mediterranean world.

I think that for me at least the highlights include the discussion of the evolution of strategy and warfare. The early chapters set the stage brilliantly, taking you right into the heart of the seventeenth century Mediterranean. Buttigieg examines how the Knights adapted their defensive installations, artillery, and tactical doctrine on land and sea to match modern gunpowder-era military revolutions.

Another highlight is the chapter focussing on maritime combat. From small-scale corso (privateering) raids to massive galley fleet clashes alongside European allies, these sections feel alive. I got a real sense of the logistics, ship designs, rowers, and daring naval captains who kept the Ottoman forces at bay.

Finally, one should always remember the human element. The author investigates the daily reality of the soldiers and knights themselves. He covers recruitment, discipline, equipment, and the internal culture of an order balancing holy vows with brutal early modern warfare.

Unusually, all bar one of the full-page colour plates depict models/reenactors dressed in a variety of costumes and roles, ranging from members of the order to galley crewmen militiamen. I quite like this diversion from the norm, primarily as they portray a range of expressions or demeanours from the haughty members of the order, a grizzled and hirsute sergeant to humbler soldiers and militia. The book is well supplied with a large number of black and white illustrations and clearly drawn maps. The appendix illustrates various fighting methods and weaponry, using real models which I found interesting.

In my humble opinion this somewhat hefty book is superb. Whether you are a wargamer looking for scenario inspiration, a military history buff who loves the era, or someone fascinated by seventeenth century Mediterranean history, Offspring of Mars is an essential read. It is informative, beautifully illustrated, and thoroughly entertaining from cover to cover. Highly recommended.

ISBN: 978-1-806720-20-0 345 Pages       Softback