06-22-2007, 11:23 AM
I'll try to read up on it tonight, but IIRC both Vegetius as well as Maurice (Arrian, even?) mention missile-throwing in support of ranks 5-8 while ranks 1-4 who are engaging the enemy.
I like your interpretation, John, of the front ranks throwing short-distance overarm, and I can imagine ranks 1-4 throw underarm in a more loose formation, with the enemy at a greater distance. But even then you'd need to ensure that the arc is high, or you would hit the man before you!
But when these ranks 1-4 (or Vegetius' first line) are engaged, the ones behind that formation are not - no need to engage all 8 ranks in pushing at once. These, as seems to be described, offer a heavy rate of missile fire in support.
I like your interpretation, John, of the front ranks throwing short-distance overarm, and I can imagine ranks 1-4 throw underarm in a more loose formation, with the enemy at a greater distance. But even then you'd need to ensure that the arc is high, or you would hit the man before you!
But when these ranks 1-4 (or Vegetius' first line) are engaged, the ones behind that formation are not - no need to engage all 8 ranks in pushing at once. These, as seems to be described, offer a heavy rate of missile fire in support.
Robert Vermaat
MODERATOR
FECTIO Late Romans
THE CAUSE OF WAR MUST BE JUST
(Maurikios-Strategikon, book VIII.2: Maxim 12)
MODERATOR
FECTIO Late Romans
THE CAUSE OF WAR MUST BE JUST
(Maurikios-Strategikon, book VIII.2: Maxim 12)