Thracian/Illyrian Light Infantry

[arcole]

Looking at the classical lists, most of the time these troops are listed as javalin/spear armed light infantry, with sometimes an optional upgradet two handed weapons.

However, in the Marian list, these units can be given a long spear. Anyone know why this is the case? Seems strange to me that these troops should get something that is not even available in their own list.

Would these units be better represented as Medium rather than light foot, as a long spear mwould be a bit cumbersome for troops operatring in open order.

Thanks

A.

[invisible officer]

There had been two big tactical and dress “revolutions” in Thracia.

The first was for dress in Hellenistic time. Few still used the Thracian cap and most got helmets. The shield shape changed too, the half moon shaped was carried by few now.

And the next was in first century BC, the arms of the royal retinue fighters changing to Roman style auxiliary style with long hasta.

Some may even have had pilae. Marian my be a bit early but we can expect that Roman Generals supplied arms for Roman style tactics. For king Rhoemetalces (12BC -12 AD) the use of hasta is sure.

[arcole]

Hi,

Thanks for that prompt response.

Regards

A.

[Big Al]

Further, peltasts were light infantry that used long spears. They didn’t find them cumbersome.

[arcole]

The peltasts in the lists, and the Thureophria/Thoritakia are all show with Spear and/or Javelins, not long spear.

[Author]

Posts