09-26-2014, 07:45 PM
Look at it this way. Let say Hastati were men of age around 18-20. Principes around 25-35, and Triarii older than 35 (just an example)
from this differentiation, it is clear young Hastati will be of completely different quality than older Triarii, they would be faster, would not tired as fast, most likely would be much more effective with throwing javelins (speed, strength, "young bones"). The only advantage Triarii will have is their life experience.. but they would be not very useful in aggressive manner, at least not as Hastati or Principes. With this in mind, defensive use of older men makes sense. They dont need to run around with heavy equipment, while they can be quite useful in defense if needed. plus, very important thing is physical age.. 35 years old man during ancient times would be in much worse physical condition than modern men of the same age.. and imagine 45 years old Triarii facing 18-20 year old Hastati..
from this differentiation, it is clear young Hastati will be of completely different quality than older Triarii, they would be faster, would not tired as fast, most likely would be much more effective with throwing javelins (speed, strength, "young bones"). The only advantage Triarii will have is their life experience.. but they would be not very useful in aggressive manner, at least not as Hastati or Principes. With this in mind, defensive use of older men makes sense. They dont need to run around with heavy equipment, while they can be quite useful in defense if needed. plus, very important thing is physical age.. 35 years old man during ancient times would be in much worse physical condition than modern men of the same age.. and imagine 45 years old Triarii facing 18-20 year old Hastati..
Jaroslav Jakubov
