Roman Legionary AD 69–161: 166 (Warrior) - Softcover

Cowan, Ross

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1780965877 ISBN 13: 9781780965871

Publisher: Osprey Publishing, 2013

Synopsis

Between AD 69 and 161 the composition of the Roman legions was transformed. Italians were almost entirely replaced by provincial recruits, men for whom Latin was at best a second language, and yet the 'Roman-ness' of these Germans, Pannonians, Spaniards, Africans and Syrians, fostered in isolated fortresses on the frontiers, was incredibly strong. They were highly competitive, jealous of their honour, and driven by the need to maintain and enhance their reputations for virtus, that is manly courage and excellence. The warfare of the period, from the huge legion versus legion confrontations in the Civil War of AD 69, through the campaigns of conquest in Germany, Dacia and Britain, to the defence of the frontiers of Africa and Cappadocia and the savage quelling of internal revolts, gave ample opportunity for virtus-enhancing activity. The classic battle formation that had baffled Pyrrhus and conquered Hannibal was revived. Heroic centurions continued to lead from the front, and common legionaries vied with them in displays of valour. The legions of the era may have been provincial but they were definitely Roman in organisation and ethos.

About this title

Review:

"Archaeological relics blend with other color illustrations to accompany a detailed discussion of centurions and legionnaires, discussing cavalrymen and foot soldiers alike in a pick recommended for any early military history holding." --The Midwest Book Review (July 2013)

Book Description:

This title will reveal the story of the Roman legionary during the early days of the Roman Empire, including the conquests of Germany Dacia and Britain and the Civil War of AD 69.

About this edition

• Publisher: Osprey Publishing
• Publication date: 2013
• ISBN 10: 1780965877
• ISBN 13: 9781780965871
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 64
• Illustrator: Ó’Brógáin Seán