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What is the design on the Spartan shield?
The letter lambda (Λ), standing for Laconia or Lacedaemon, which was painted on the Spartans’ shields, was first adopted in 420s BC and quickly became a widely known Spartan symbol.
Why did Spartans have an L on their shields?
The lambda was adopted as the symbol of Laconia (the region of Greece where Sparta is located) and Lacedaemon (the ancient name for the city) in the late 5th century BC. It was as a symbol of pride that they carried the symbol of their home on their most cherished possession.
Why did Greek soldiers decorate their shields?
Often called an “Argive” shield, it not only protected its owner in battle but showed his allegiance to a particular city-state or leader. And the figures painted on its exterior were also often meant to show the courage of its bearer and to strike fear into the enemy.
How big was a real Spartan shield?
The aspis measured at least 0.9 metres (2 ft 11 in) in diameter and weighed about 7.3 kilograms (16 lb), and it was about 25–38 millimetres (0.98–1.50 in) thick. This large shield was made possible partly by its shape, which allowed it to be supported comfortably on the shoulder.
How were Spartan shield designs assigned?
Some folks say that Spartan shield designs were assigned by territorial brigades of 600 hoplites called a Mora. Each Mora had its own device, although execution of the symbol would vary. Of course, there are other stories about Spartans having individual designs in this period.
What was the organizational structure of the Spartan army?
Army organization. The Spartan people (the “Lacedaemonians”) were divided into three classes: Full citizens, known as the Spartiates proper, or Hómoioi (“equals” or peers), who received a grant of land (kláros or klēros, “lot”) for their military service.
How much does a Spartan Shield weigh?
I am astonished at the weight of a Spartan shield, which I have read would have weighed 30 lbs (13.5 kg). This is, of course, extremely heavy for most people.
How did Spartan males get involved in the military?
A Spartan male’s involvement with the army began in infancy when the Gerousia first inspected him. Any baby judged weak or deformed was left at Mount Taygetus to die since the Spartan society was no place for those who could not fend for themselves.