01-16-2020, 12:47 AM
Polybius in fact refers to two different three feet spaces: 1) the space occupied by the soldiers themselves and their equipment and 2) the intervals between soldiers. While this has often been read as producing a file width of 6 feet, these two spaces likely overlap. That is, the interval between soldiers of three feet is likely calculated from the center of the soldier, who occupies part of it with his person and weapons. The actually file-width would only be 4.5 feet (or so--no need to be dogmatic about what foot Polybius is using, although its probably Attic).
This might explain how the Romans actually "found" their space when the created formations. The Roman shield is somewhat under 2.5 feet in width (once you factor the curve), and its may be that the Romans created their "open order" formations simply by starting off with locked shields, and then having every other man step forward, which would create shield sized intervals between the men of the front rank.
I discuss this more here (available in full on line): https://www.academia.edu/3394799/Visual_...ry_Tactics and here (PM me for a full PDF) https://www.academia.edu/1602947/Roman_I...assessment
This might explain how the Romans actually "found" their space when the created formations. The Roman shield is somewhat under 2.5 feet in width (once you factor the curve), and its may be that the Romans created their "open order" formations simply by starting off with locked shields, and then having every other man step forward, which would create shield sized intervals between the men of the front rank.
I discuss this more here (available in full on line): https://www.academia.edu/3394799/Visual_...ry_Tactics and here (PM me for a full PDF) https://www.academia.edu/1602947/Roman_I...assessment
