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Introduction to Siege Engines:
The trebuchet is an ancient siege engine used for throwing large rocks. It was invented in China in about the 4th century BC, came to Europe in the 6th century AD, and did not become obsolete until the 16th century, well after the introduction of gunpowder.
The
trebuchet is basically a pivoting lever supported high above the ground
by a timber frame. The short end of the lever had a heavy
counterweight, often weighing many tons, and the long end of the lever
had a sling, which was typically filled with a huge rock. The
idea was to hurl large objects to crumble a castle wall so it
can be invaded and attacked more easily. The long throwing range
of a trebuchet was also utilized to throw Greek Fire, dead animals and severed heads to scare and intimidate the enemy.
Trebuchets
are not to be confused with catapults. Trebuchets are much better than
catapults. A really large trebuchet can reach out and squish a catapult
with a half ton rock at 200 yards or more.
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