New Insight on Richard III

[BubbleWright]

Caught an episode of the PBS show "Secrets of the Dead" (S13/EP6/2014) "Resurrecting Richard III". After discovering Richard's grave, scientists speculate how the curvature of the skeleton's spine might have affected his ability to fight in armor. Surprisingly, they were able to locate a young man whose curvature of the spine matched that of the skeleton. Even more amazing, this fellow was a Medieval reenactor at Bosworth Field. They then tested his physical abilities, gave him training in Medieval fighting techniques, and finally, had a bespoke suit of armor made for him. Both the armor and the Medieval horse saddle gave him enough support that he was able to show that the disability did not affect his ability to fight. Quite a fascinating documentary and well worth seeking it out to view.

[Merlin the Elder]

Fascinating!

[RenStarr]

Caught an episode of the PBS show "Secrets of the Dead" (S13/EP6/2014) "Resurrecting Richard III". After discovering Richard's grave, scientists speculate how the curvature of the skeleton's spine might have affected his ability to fight in armor. Surprisingly, they were able to locate a young man whose curvature of the spine matched that of the skeleton. Even more amazing, this fellow was a Medieval reenactor at Bosworth Field. They then tested his physical abilities, gave him training in Medieval fighting techniques, and finally, had a bespoke suit of armor made for him. Both the armor and the Medieval horse saddle gave him enough support that he was able to show that the disability did not affect his ability to fight. Quite a fascinating documentary and well worth seeking it out to view.

That sounds strangely familiar to me.  I can't remember where, but I do remember seeing a show that matches the description as you have outlined it.  King Richard III and an issue with his spine.  Then looking at a modern day young man with a similar issue with as best as they could do, the same height and build of KRIII.  The young man had a suite of armor made specifically for him and he was observed doing some Medieval fighting.  It was an interesting show I guess, I remember it!! 

[Lord Argyl of Lochdubh]

That's cool. I hope I can find the episode and watch it. Wasn't some medieval nobility remains discovered under a parking lot in the U.K. ? it's fascinating what they can discover these days. Thanks for the heads up.