09-24-2014, 02:05 PM
Actually, we have no proof Triarii were armored anyhow differently than Principes or Hastati.. Only thing stated by Polybius was, that those who's wealth was greater than 10000 drachmae, used Mail. Yet, he didnt wrote how many of such citizens were usually in Republican legion. Also, If you look at modern society, you have rich and poor families, as it was in Ancient times. Just because you are young, it doesn't mean you wont be able to afford appropriate equipment if you are member of well suited family. As well as if you are from poorer family, just because you are at prime age, it doenst mean you will be afford better armor. it is completely separate issue not linked with age...
Roman Infantry was divided by age. Young men were Hastati, while Principes were the prime man in their best age. Triarii at the other side were older men, more like reservists, who are no longer in prime strength, therefore they were not used in main battle line, and only engaged when Principes and Hastati got in big troubles. At some battles, Roman Commanders didnt even called triarii to the field, leaving them guarding camp (like for example at Cannae), which is quite important thing - Triarii were not considered to be some kind of an Elite unit, otherwise they would be not left out.. but more like a reservist force.
And why dividing the force like this? it is quite simple - Hastati started battle, because young guys of age around 18+ have best condition. after they got repeled or tired, Principes were engaged while Hastati would reform behind them to support them. General would not send old guys into action if he had any other choice. as those men would get fatigued much faster than younger men. (no offense to older men, i'm also not the youngest,btw)
Roman Infantry was divided by age. Young men were Hastati, while Principes were the prime man in their best age. Triarii at the other side were older men, more like reservists, who are no longer in prime strength, therefore they were not used in main battle line, and only engaged when Principes and Hastati got in big troubles. At some battles, Roman Commanders didnt even called triarii to the field, leaving them guarding camp (like for example at Cannae), which is quite important thing - Triarii were not considered to be some kind of an Elite unit, otherwise they would be not left out.. but more like a reservist force.
And why dividing the force like this? it is quite simple - Hastati started battle, because young guys of age around 18+ have best condition. after they got repeled or tired, Principes were engaged while Hastati would reform behind them to support them. General would not send old guys into action if he had any other choice. as those men would get fatigued much faster than younger men. (no offense to older men, i'm also not the youngest,btw)
Jaroslav Jakubov
