03-31-2004, 12:34 AM
I agree with your idea of the pyramid, though I would think that the center area would have been left hollow because there wouldn't be much purpose in having century in the center because it would not be able to throw it pila and would be too close behind to allow an orderly line changing. Such a solid block would also be tactically very dangerous and could create the crowding which several ancient authors(Caesar, Livy) discuss in reference to hard pressed units. The Roman infantrymen needed space to operate: a solid, wedge shaped phalanx would have had limited use, like against cavalry: ala Arrian. My view is that the wedge would normally have another line behind it(of wedges or the rectangular "standard" line) in the second acis, which could quickly reinforce or press the front line to replace tired units or to fill in gaps left by certain tactical maneuvers, etc. As Goldsworthy points out, Caesar especially mentions that the second line of battle was very often engaged almost as much as the first line, and that the third line often acted as a reserve. This would tend to indicate that any front line formations had to be able to be replaced quickly, usually on the cohort level. <p></p><i></i>
