The Skjaldmaer

From publisher blurb:

Commonly from the icy mountains, frozen inlets, or ragged fjords of the high north, the Skjaldmaer are widely recognized for their defensive renown. A shieldmaiden isn’t born with the title “Skjaldmaer”- it is earned, awarded to those who show exceptional fighting skill and an unmatched will to protect those who cannot fight for themselves. Though they remain adept fighters with all weaponry, the Skjaldmaer are masters of the shield. Whether for attack or defense, these resilient fighters use their shields like extensions of themselves.

This is a guide to an alternative martial archetype option for the Fighter class of Dungeons and Dragons (5e).