Battle Studies - Colonel Ardant du Picq

[Tarbicus]

High risk strategy this. What about the men in the ranks behind stabbing those that lie underfoot as they slowly grind forward, just to make sure hock: Interesting theory though.

It is high risk, but if the phalanx can't be penetrated then the risk is there anyway, of losing the battle. Look at the civil wars of 69 AD and the Jewish War for some ludicrous risks taken.

Would the phalangites be in a position to check every dead man underfoot?
http://ccwf.cc.utexas.edu/~warfare/Lect ... halanx.jpg