[split] Psychology of the Roman soldier

[Densus]

NO. I believe they used those shields because they gave them tactical advantage, due to their construction, which allowed relatively active use of shield, unlike Greek Aspis, which due to being strapped on the arm had limited capacity for offensive use) they kept formation and fought as a unit. They didn't rush individually at enemy, but covered each other, formed battle line and tried to relieve tired men for fresh when possible. also while front line was engaged in contact with enemy, rear ranks could still use their javelins and throw them at enemy rear ranks. Contact with enemy was brief, after which both sides stepped back, reorganize, then attack again. during luls, those who had javelins would use them from behind the own main line

This is pretty much what Bryan and I have been saying from the start of this thread, and very different to the idea that most men cowered trying not to be hurt while a minority of psychopaths did all of the actual fighting that started this argument.