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Roman Legionnaires in first century Judea?
#1
Can anyone point me to an online source that has an accurate image of what a first century Roman soldier might have looked like around 33 AD?

Thanks,
Marcus
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#2
Welcome to the forum, Marcus.

It's more likely that the soldiers you're looking for were auxiliary troops rather than legionaries, as we commonly make that distinction. You've probably figured out already that the movies basically have it wrong, eh? While by no means exhaustive, these Osprey books should give you some idea of the soldiers you are likely wanting to portray:


http://www.ospreypublishing.com/store/Th...1846032066
http://www.ospreypublishing.com/store/Th...1846033865
http://www.ospreypublishing.com/store/Ro...1841769738
http://www.ospreypublishing.com/store/Ro...1841764870

There are many possibilities, of course, and many opinions on what the soldiers would have worn, for example, at a crucifixion. It seems reasonable to me, at least, that they would not have worn body armor for the grunt work of hoisting up and nailing bodies. There could have been battle-ready men on scene, but not necessarily. No doubt others have better sources, but if you're looking to outfit a crew for, say, a stage play, then those books have many pictures that would be of use to a costumer. Hope that helps.
M. Demetrius Abicio
(David Wills)

Saepe veritas est dura.
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#3
Hollywood can not be trusted with history. Thanks for the reply.
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#4
In January, Pen & Sword release Roman Conquests Egypt and Judaea, with plates from Graham Sumner
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