08-06-2004, 08:29 PM
Robert,<br>
<br>
I started a new thread under References & Reviews in which I comment on the use of sources. I refer you to that as a continuation about the pros and cons of ancient and modern written sources.<br>
<br>
On the subject of the continued use of pila, we may have to agree to disagree. In my opinion there is just not enough evidence to accept what Bishop and Coulston wrote about the the reduction in use. You commented on the gaesum and even Vegetius mentions another pilum-like weapon. Regardless of the name (bebrae, angon, spiculum, pilum, etc.) such weapons existed; however, it is difficult to determine their popularity apart from what Vegetius wrote. There is certainly not much physical evidence and the pictorial evidence is subject to debate as is obvious by the debate at this site and others.<br>
<br>
There is a difference between fencing and sword fighting. Having used riot gear, the Roman gladius and spatha are certainly ideal for thrusting just as is the modern baton or stick. I have seen enough examples of reenactors using swords to see the merit in thrusting or punching with a sword or baton. It is less fatiguing than slashing or cutting as is more the case in fencing.<br>
<br>
Perry <p></p><i></i>
<br>
I started a new thread under References & Reviews in which I comment on the use of sources. I refer you to that as a continuation about the pros and cons of ancient and modern written sources.<br>
<br>
On the subject of the continued use of pila, we may have to agree to disagree. In my opinion there is just not enough evidence to accept what Bishop and Coulston wrote about the the reduction in use. You commented on the gaesum and even Vegetius mentions another pilum-like weapon. Regardless of the name (bebrae, angon, spiculum, pilum, etc.) such weapons existed; however, it is difficult to determine their popularity apart from what Vegetius wrote. There is certainly not much physical evidence and the pictorial evidence is subject to debate as is obvious by the debate at this site and others.<br>
<br>
There is a difference between fencing and sword fighting. Having used riot gear, the Roman gladius and spatha are certainly ideal for thrusting just as is the modern baton or stick. I have seen enough examples of reenactors using swords to see the merit in thrusting or punching with a sword or baton. It is less fatiguing than slashing or cutting as is more the case in fencing.<br>
<br>
Perry <p></p><i></i>
