12-02-2010, 10:44 AM
I'm not an expert myself, but from what I've learned (here, mostly), the main thing is there was no shield "wall", more like a "dozer blade", i.e. pushing, not standing in place. When the enemy stops (and it would require good organisation and discipline to bring the rushing warriors to a stop), the Romans would not stand there and wait until the enemy finds a way to overcome them, they would push.
Also, the enemies Romans faced probably didn't have any "war axes" that could outreach the short swords. Certainly not something in the way of a five ft two-handed double-sided axes.
In the time gladii were in use and for the way they were used they must have been effective, otherwise they would be replaced by another sword. As things changed in the later centuries, the gladii were gradually phased out by spathae, serving the needs of that time better than gladii.
Others will surely have more to say in this matter. I hope I'm not making something up and if, someone please correct me.
Also, the enemies Romans faced probably didn't have any "war axes" that could outreach the short swords. Certainly not something in the way of a five ft two-handed double-sided axes.
In the time gladii were in use and for the way they were used they must have been effective, otherwise they would be replaced by another sword. As things changed in the later centuries, the gladii were gradually phased out by spathae, serving the needs of that time better than gladii.
Others will surely have more to say in this matter. I hope I'm not making something up and if, someone please correct me.
Best wishes
Roman Vávra
Roman Vávra
