Ancient Warfare Special Issue 2010: Core of the Legion - The Roman Imperial centuria|
|
Ancient Warfare Special Issue 2010: Core of the Legion - The Roman Imperial centuriaThe Century is the best known unit within the Roman Legion, and the Centurion the prime example of the tough professional Roman soldier. This special issue of Ancient Warfare focuses on the century and centurion of the early Imperial army.
Amongst the articles are an analysis of a speech made by Hadrian after inspecting his troops in Africa, a study of individual centurion's careers as seen on their own inscriptions and a more detailed look at the equipment shown on the tomb of Marcus Favonius Facilis, found at Colchester. There is also a look at the battlefield role of the Century, which was never the main tactical unit of the legion, a role that went to the maniple or the cohort. The article examining the fragmentary surviving administrative documents is fascinating, giving a rare glimpse into the day-to-day life of the Roman Army. There are also useful articles on the equipment, uniform and armour of the Roman soldier.
This selection of articles provides a useful view of the current state of research into the role of the Century, as well as some more detailed material on the life of the individual soldier.
Chapters
Core of the Legion - Historical Introduction
The Source - Hadrian and his soldiers
The Men - Backbone of the legions
Reconstruction - The centurio from Colchester
The Men - learning on the job and in camp
Tactics - The centuria in battle
Administration - Records on bark, shards and papyrus
Logistics - Keeping the legionnaires clothed and fed
Reconstruction - Dressed for the occasion
Equipment - Keeping the weapons
Equipment - With bodies completely protected
Travel - Museum Tips
Pages: 82
Publisher: Ancient Warfare Magazine
Year: 2010