11-28-2013, 02:49 PM
Define "charging speed". The most common charging speed for Greek phalanxes was at a walking pace. In my opinion, speeds up to a rhythmic jog could be achieved for a limited distance (let's say a bowshot) without seriously endangering order by a phalanx that was adequately trained/experienced. Higher speeds are not that easy to achieve, mainly because of the shape and size of the shield, which does not allow such movement without it being raised high or held aside, which practically would make the hoplites even more vulnerable to missiles. What makes you think that charge "at a run" was common for ancient phalanxes? According to Herodot, Marathon was the first case of a running charge among the Greeks (6.112)
