07-11-2013, 11:20 AM
Mark.
I have for some time been of the opinion that where Roman soldiers performed as Maniples they would line up for battle in two rows with a two yard gap between each man, the rear rank would be at a staggered position so that there would be room for also the rear rank to throw at the same time as the front.
They would not look at the oncoming enemy but watch the Pilus Prior to their right then when he judged the enemy at about 30 yards he would throw and they would all follow his lead, this way you have everyone throwing at exactly the same time with the enemy at about 25 yards then they pick up their shields the rear rank step into the gaps of the front rank and lock shields and let battle commence.
I have for some time been of the opinion that where Roman soldiers performed as Maniples they would line up for battle in two rows with a two yard gap between each man, the rear rank would be at a staggered position so that there would be room for also the rear rank to throw at the same time as the front.
They would not look at the oncoming enemy but watch the Pilus Prior to their right then when he judged the enemy at about 30 yards he would throw and they would all follow his lead, this way you have everyone throwing at exactly the same time with the enemy at about 25 yards then they pick up their shields the rear rank step into the gaps of the front rank and lock shields and let battle commence.
Brian Stobbs
