This book is the first to examine how classical Greek cavalry actually operated on the battlefield. It looks at the prime characteristics of Greek cavalry, including mobility, protection, armament, training, leadership, flexibility, and motivation. Up to now, it has usually been assumed that ancient Greek cavalry was subordinated to the infantry because it was less effective in battle. This book challenges this assumption, analysing the position of Greek cavalry, and especially the Athenian arm, not only in the battlefield but in society as a whole. It concludes that, like many modern societies, Greek states produced military arms which were moulded more by social and economic influences than by purely military considerations. Classical Greek cavalry had a high combat potential, but this was reduced by the attitudes of the rest of society towards the cavalry class - the wealthiest and most aristocratic group in most states.
Reviews
Within its stated scope (Athens to c. 300 BCE), Spence's study is now the standard reference on this topic....Essential for university history and military collections. * Choice *



Book Information
ISBN 9780198150282
Author I. G. Spence
Format Paperback
Page Count 380
Imprint Clarendon Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 1g
Dimensions(mm) 216mm * 137mm * 25mm