The importance of Roman Reconstruction Archaeology

[P. Clodius Secundus]

Interesting thread John! It's a little like the recent discussion whether History is a scientific discipline. IMHO reconstruction qualifies as such, provided that one is prepared to cite primary sources, document metrics, disclose compromises/substitutions, objectively engage in peer review, and most importantly change/adapt one's theory or design when necessary. The next question is "Who is qualified to conduct the experiments?". Is it rightly the exclusive domain of professional academics? I hope not! To deny the efforts of amateurs would be both arrogant and wasteful. Many of us started out as history majors so we have a general understanding of the process, but have made different career choices. As Robert Frost said, "and that has made all the difference". Had I become a history teacher as once intended I would have missed many of the experiences which most influence my approach to reconstruction. The widening divide between academia and the military would be especially detrimental if it wasn't mitigated by re-enactment which brings many millitary types back into the fold. Having a purely academic mind reverse engineer a weapon is like getting advice on marriage and sex from celibate clergy. All educated theory but no practical experience. :lol: The hardest part of the modern military mindset is resisting the urge to shave all excess weight and slather it in camouflage. A weekend or two spent in a Napoleonic Line of Battle will start reversing that process.