02-23-2006, 09:16 AM
Well, yes, that's what Wheeler is saying.. He reckons the square curved 'legionary' scuta were already being replaced with the flat oval ones starting from the late 2nd century.. For a shield wall/anti-cavalry formation, the flat shield is surely more stable than a dished one when you have overlapping rims which you much support with your shoulder.
But for individual combat, like you say, a dished one seems much better suited. And we know they existed…
But for individual combat, like you say, a dished one seems much better suited. And we know they existed…
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)