07-02-2009, 11:43 AM
You should take into account the differences between close order and synaspismos. Of course there was a half file and a half file leader. Yet, there is the question as to how the files were formed in open (marching order). If the general would believe that a synaspsimos should be formed against his opponent, then he would march in 32 men files (dilochia), so that he could fall to 16 when closing and to 8 when synazpizein. If no synaspismos would be formed then a 16 men marching file would be formed IF the general would opt for an 8 men deep line in close order. If he was to figt 16 deep, then he would again march 32 deep and close to 16 before the charge (of course not a running charge but a walking charge...)
