03-13-2005, 09:54 AM
Hello Antoninus<br>
<br>
The point of the illustrations of the 'Praetorian' and the Phalangite was to show that even if any rules existed, relating to style, practicality, cost, or tradition they could be swept aside by individuals like Nero or Caracalla. There was no suggestion that these uniforms were normal or that they may have lasted longer than the reign of the individual emperor. So do not discount other sources of evidence for Praetorian uniforms as they are equally relevant.<br>
<br>
If you notice the upper half of the 'Praetorian' armour in my illustration is iron with bronze edging. Only a few years ago this would have been thought of as fanciful but archaeology has now proved this to be true.<br>
<br>
Whatever Caracalla's state of mind, sources indicate that he was an experienced soldier loved by his troops. He probably realized that the Roman army was long overdue for reform and his 'Phalanx' could be viewed in this light. As you pointed out earlier, the army did indeed adopt new tactics and equipment soon afterwords.<br>
<br>
Nevertheless if you think these subjects are controversial just wait till you see what is in Roman Military Clothing 3!<br>
<br>
Both Raffaele D'Amato and I have been commissioned to produce a new book on Roman military equipment and clothing. So sources such as the mosaic from Tunisia will be published in that. However if you cannot wait for the book to be published if you post your email or postal address I would be pleased to send you a picture.<br>
<br>
Graham. <p></p><i></i>
<br>
The point of the illustrations of the 'Praetorian' and the Phalangite was to show that even if any rules existed, relating to style, practicality, cost, or tradition they could be swept aside by individuals like Nero or Caracalla. There was no suggestion that these uniforms were normal or that they may have lasted longer than the reign of the individual emperor. So do not discount other sources of evidence for Praetorian uniforms as they are equally relevant.<br>
<br>
If you notice the upper half of the 'Praetorian' armour in my illustration is iron with bronze edging. Only a few years ago this would have been thought of as fanciful but archaeology has now proved this to be true.<br>
<br>
Whatever Caracalla's state of mind, sources indicate that he was an experienced soldier loved by his troops. He probably realized that the Roman army was long overdue for reform and his 'Phalanx' could be viewed in this light. As you pointed out earlier, the army did indeed adopt new tactics and equipment soon afterwords.<br>
<br>
Nevertheless if you think these subjects are controversial just wait till you see what is in Roman Military Clothing 3!<br>
<br>
Both Raffaele D'Amato and I have been commissioned to produce a new book on Roman military equipment and clothing. So sources such as the mosaic from Tunisia will be published in that. However if you cannot wait for the book to be published if you post your email or postal address I would be pleased to send you a picture.<br>
<br>
Graham. <p></p><i></i>
