(12-13-2017, 12:46 AM)Theoderic Wrote: It is interesting that Tacitus mentions that he had chosen a place where he could be safe from ambush. This perhaps brings us to the point of why he was concerned about being ambushed. This was a typical Brythonic tactic but if, as has been assumed, SP was moving away from the "Horde" why was he concerned about being ambushed?
The fear of ambush point seems to be relevant to the open plain. I read this to indicate that Paulinus wanted to be sure that, when he left the protection of the defile, he would not be attacked by enemies emerging unexpectedly from cover. The open plain allowed him to see the whole of the enemy force and to make his dispositions accordingly.
(12-13-2017, 12:46 AM)Theoderic Wrote: At Tring there is a valley facing Akeman Street where this is perfectly feasible, a steep sided valley with a water supply contained therin but no river running through the battlefield, that as we all agreed years ago would have been reported.
Like John I think that the defile does imply an extremely steep sided valley so that he could not be outflanked, based not only on woods but also the terrain but would have to be large enough to accommodate his forces and the refugees
I have yet to find a reason why this valley is being ignored as a valid site.
You have probably mentioned this before but could you refresh my memory by posting an image of the site?
Michael King Macdona
And do as adversaries do in law, -
Strive mightily, but eat and drink as friends.
(The Taming of the Shrew: Act 1, Scene 2)
And do as adversaries do in law, -
Strive mightily, but eat and drink as friends.
(The Taming of the Shrew: Act 1, Scene 2)