The greek linothorax

[Matthew Amt]

Pretty much what Paul said! We'd all love to see more significant information and hard data than what Connolly gives, but I don't think there's a lot more out there. In all the talk about it over the years, no one has come up with anything other than theories regarding thickness, glues, etc. The one that I made at least looks pretty much like the vase paintings.<br>
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The only other modern source that goes into much detail is Nick Sekunda, and he comes to the bizarred conclusion that it was made of iron plates hinged together and simply covered with linen! That seems to be contradicted by the name "linothorax" first of all, and by references in ancient literature to people "armored in linen". Secondly, vase paintings clearly show the shoulder flaps sticking straight up when unfastened, and hinged iron plates won't do that. Third, there is an ancient writer who tells us that the linothorax isn't as good in warfare because it's not as resistant to weapons as a bronze cuirass, but it's great for hunting because lions' teeth will break off in it--that doesn't sound like a description of an iron cuirass!<br>
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It's very true that I have not done a lot of primary research! But I think most of the pertinant bits of data have trickled down to me by now. I'd be thrilled to find out that we've all missed something significant! Not that I'd run home and make a new linothorax...<br>
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Khairete,<br>
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Matthew <p></p><i></i>