Armor does play a large role in reducing damage (obviously, but more than some other games). The extra armor from bronze might be considered overkill to some, but it could be a difference maker.

I do find that a good shield is more important, so an upgraded bronze buckler works better for me. A parry will block more damage than large shields, has a lower speed penalty, and parries cause enemies to recoil and take critical damage for a couple seconds, making for much shorter fights.

And the swamps are quite threatening overall. Dipping your toes in the water is basically begging them to be eaten by leeches. Draugr are plentiful and painful if left unchecked. Abominations can sprout anywhere and can't exactly be ignored. Blobs and oozers require particular care or poison resist potions to deal with. It's definitely a lot less welcoming than the previous areas.