Let's make our own models (and maybe even animations)

I have an idea to create a character model from scratch, from beginning to end, with full lighting and animations. The model and animations are needed for a portfolio. I will write about some aspects of the work; maybe it will be useful to someone, maybe someone will suggest a good idea, and in general, it will provide more motivation.

For now, the idea is to create an updated version of armored/sword-wielding warriors, but that's not certain.
If anyone is interested, please post reference images and ideas in this thread regarding redesigning the armored/sword-wielding warrior or suggest your own character. The only criteria are that the character should be on foot, wielding a melee weapon, and humanoid.
I would like to adhere to a realistic style, meaning the weapons and armor should resemble real-world items.