07-05-2007, 07:56 AM
It might be possible to estimate casualties if we think about the battle formation, the time and the space of the battle. About 7000 Greeks were present, but only a part could have been in the first two rows of the phalanx and used their weapons. How long was the Greek battle line? The pass was as narrow as 50 metres (or 15 m ?) at that time, but I have the feeling, the battle line was broader, being formed in a wider part of the pass. The battle lasted for about three days? How many men at the same time could have done damage for what time ... ?
You see, I don't know much about the battle but if one would have the factors perhaps the numbers could be judged.
I believe it is much to high if casualties should mean dead men. When people fight each other in firm formations and have only spears as main weapons and some kind of shields, the killing factor is rather low normally before the formation breaks.
You see, I don't know much about the battle but if one would have the factors perhaps the numbers could be judged.
I believe it is much to high if casualties should mean dead men. When people fight each other in firm formations and have only spears as main weapons and some kind of shields, the killing factor is rather low normally before the formation breaks.
Wolfgang Zeiler
