12-15-2005, 05:03 PM
On the subject of the Kopis, I would argue for a possible Greek origin on the basis that the Argive shield and the accopanying Hoplite panoply and tactics were, in themselves, a departure from tradition. Indeed, many scholars talk of "The Hoplite revolution". The kopis seems to me a weapon better-suited to Hoplite warfare than the xiphos ( even the broader-bladed varieties) because it's a "can-opener" - a heavy weapon ideal for smashing down onto helmeted heads or through the rims and bodies of shields, so it could be that its development was a part of said revolution.
Now tell me it's later. :?
Now tell me it's later. :?