Table of Contents
Why are Greek shields small and round?
Because of the many different ways in which a spear was used by a hoplite in offence, in and out of formation, a lighter round shield was more suitable by providing less interference with the spear use. The greater reach of the spear also keeps the opponent at bay, so less defensive coverage is necessary.
Did Greeks invent the round shield?
Towards the end of the eighth century BC, the ancient Greeks invented a large, round shield (aspis) that was to dominate Greek warfare from that point onwards down the Hellenistic era. It’s often referred to as an “Argive” shield.
What shape is a Greek shield?
The Greeks had two principal forms of shield in use, with broad flat rims, and the curved surface of the shield rising above them: (1) the long shield of oval shape that covered the wearer from mouth to ankles, suspended by a belt passing [round the neck and] the left shoulder, with a handle for the left hand.
What was the purpose of the Greek shields?
These large shields were designed for a mass of hoplites to push forward into the opposing army, and it was their most essential equipment. The shield was carried in the left hand. It was used by Spartans as a weapon of attack.
Why did shields become smaller?
The Roman government simply couldn’t afford the same type of equipment for their legions that they could in earlier periods. The oval shields provided roughly equal cover while using less material, therefore making the shield cheaper and easier to produce and maintain.
What is the purpose of hoplon?
After the battle, the hoplon was often used as a stretcher to carry the dead and wounded from the battlefield. In the event of a retreat, the shield would usually be the first thing discarded.
What’s a Greek shield called?
An aspis (Ancient Greek: ἀσπίς, plural aspides, ἀσπίδες), sometimes also referred to as an hoplon (Greek: ὅπλον), was the heavy wooden shield used by the infantry in various periods of ancient Greece.
What did Spartans have on their shields?
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. Military families passed on their shields to each generation as family heirlooms.
What shields did Knights use?
Medieval Shields of Knights The heater and kite shields were the most common shields used by knights. This was for the simple reason that they were suited for those warriors on horseback, complemented their body armor adequately as well as being much smaller in size.
What is the wooden round Greek red spiral shield?
The Wooden Round Greek Red Spiral Shield is a simple and elegant shield that features a subtle Grecian design. This shield is hand-made and hand-painted using quality materials, making it suitable for both use and decoration. Loading more products
What is the meaning of the Greek shield?
The shield bears a classic Greek Bull design, a symbol of strength and valor. This blank unpainted wooden shield in the shape commonly used by the soldiers of ancient Greece. It measures about 35 inches in height and 24 inches in width.
Can Greek shields be used as reenactment Shields?
Many, in fact, are fully functional, battle ready shields that are designed to take a blow and allow a warrior to push back and shrug it off. That means that these functional Greek shields are perfect as reenactment shields, or as SCA shields if you find a chapter that Greek reenactments and Greek fights.
Which hand did the warrior carry the Greek shield in?
The warrior would carry the Greek shield in his left hand with the help of central band and grip via a strap on the shield. Shields would weigh as much as 8 kg sometimes and the fighter would require great strength and skill to use it as a protection.