Hoplite - History of the word

[Paralus]

There are in fact two 'types" described. Sometimes spear-fencing from about 5' is probably indicated. At other times it is shield on shield as perhaps first described by Tyrtaeous, but best seen in Xenophon's post mordem of Coronea- crushed shields and swords stuck in bodies. Both occurred in most battles of the classical period.

I imagine that it really comes down to the Greek used. Me? I have to make do with translations as my own aren't that good ( i've been at it a while and it's time for at least a summer Uni course...). Meantime I rely on the fact that "hand to hand" is exactly that. Pelopidas engaed in such at Cynoschepalae with Alexander's mercenaries. They did not: "most of them fought at longer range, thrusting their spears through his armour and covering him with wounds". I'd disagree that spears at a distance qualifies as "hand to hand".

The hoplites in Diodorus' description of second Mantinea clearly indicates serious hand to hand . To my mind, these battling hoplites are not shield to shield with their mates. They are "locked" with their opposites; giving as they get in sword fights. This, clearly to me, means hoplites able to move, dodge and parry with a shield whilst thrusting and slashing with a xiphos. This is near "open order" fighting surely?