11-21-2013, 09:06 PM
Macedon wrote:
I also have to point out the fact that the Romans did not deploy in their regular fashion. Their battle-plan was adapted to fit the situation and this proves that they did try to improvise. They did not fight in three lines as they usually did but in a single deep phalanx.
What is the source for this?
Macedon wrote:
The Ofanto could not have been used as a barrier for many reasons. It is a rather small river, with a low flow and the battle took place in summer, so most probably, the river was everywhere very easily fordable.
"When the battle shout was raised the auxiliaries ran forward, and the battle began with the light infantry. Then the Gauls and Spaniards on the left engaged the Roman cavalry on the right; the battle was not at all like a cavalry fight, for there was no room for maneuvering, the river on the one side and the infantry on the other hemming them in, compelled them to fight face to face." (Liv Hist of Rome, Book 22.47)
Is this translation accurate? If so, it seems the river was an effective obstacle.
I also have to point out the fact that the Romans did not deploy in their regular fashion. Their battle-plan was adapted to fit the situation and this proves that they did try to improvise. They did not fight in three lines as they usually did but in a single deep phalanx.
What is the source for this?
Macedon wrote:
The Ofanto could not have been used as a barrier for many reasons. It is a rather small river, with a low flow and the battle took place in summer, so most probably, the river was everywhere very easily fordable.
"When the battle shout was raised the auxiliaries ran forward, and the battle began with the light infantry. Then the Gauls and Spaniards on the left engaged the Roman cavalry on the right; the battle was not at all like a cavalry fight, for there was no room for maneuvering, the river on the one side and the infantry on the other hemming them in, compelled them to fight face to face." (Liv Hist of Rome, Book 22.47)
Is this translation accurate? If so, it seems the river was an effective obstacle.
