05-16-2007, 08:23 AM
There are lots of examples of generals in combat, especially for the mid-Republic, most notably Marcellus (cf. the Spolia Opima thread referred to above by Alexandr). Moving into the late Republic, aside from Pompey: Marius, e.g. Aquae Sextiae; Manius Aquilius in Sicily; Sulla at Orchomenus; presumably Sertorius (can't think of any examples, tho'); Lucullus at Tigranocerta; Caesar also at Thapsus and Munda; Hirtius and Pansa in the Mutina War; Antony is frequently reported in action, e.g. Second Philippi; Crassus in Moesia 29 BC... I imagine there are other examples, especially for the Social War and Civil Wars.
For the Empire, the first emperor to fight in battle was Maximinus (AD 235-238). Note also Decius and the rest of the soldier emperors. Later, Julian was of course killed in battle.
As Jim says, discussion and refs can be found in For the Glory of Rome, chp 3. I don't have a copy or my notes to hand, so apologies for the lack of source references.
Cheers,
R!
For the Empire, the first emperor to fight in battle was Maximinus (AD 235-238). Note also Decius and the rest of the soldier emperors. Later, Julian was of course killed in battle.
As Jim says, discussion and refs can be found in For the Glory of Rome, chp 3. I don't have a copy or my notes to hand, so apologies for the lack of source references.
Cheers,
R!
