10-08-2014, 02:59 AM
I don't think it offered any more protection than a montefortino. In fact, I suspect that the eye-holes, which were often left open, would be something of a weak point. In contrast, the shape of the montefortino is better suited to deflecting thrusts and encouraging slashes to glance off. I suspect that the enduring popularity of the the apulo-corinthian (which is probably depicted in the 2nd cent BCE Ahenobarbus relief) is more due to its appearance than its function. The form consciously recalled the older corinthians, and romans probably felt it made them look heroic.
That said, we don't really know if triarii really did wear it all that much. the Ahenobarbus relief appears to be showing the central figure wearing one, so it may be a higher status helmet. And therefore the veteran triarii may be more likely to own one. But there is not any hard proof.
That's pretty speculative, but it's my best answer.
That said, we don't really know if triarii really did wear it all that much. the Ahenobarbus relief appears to be showing the central figure wearing one, so it may be a higher status helmet. And therefore the veteran triarii may be more likely to own one. But there is not any hard proof.
That's pretty speculative, but it's my best answer.
