Ok so we all probably know of the Landsknechte as popular mercenary soldiers during the 15th and 16th century, but what excatly was the social background of the Landsknechte? Were they sons of well paid soldiers or was it recruitement open for everybody who could afford? Were they selected by generals depending on their physical skills?

How did they live? Did they live a spartan life or did they have families and owned their own houses?

Basically trying to move away from the warrior side of the Landsknechte and focusing on their social life and how to become a landsknecht.

You'll find this book very helpful:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Landsknecht-Soldier-1...amp;sr=8-2

That's the Amazon UK listing. You might be able to get it through amazon.de, too.