The Cavalry of Classical Greece: A Social and Military History with Particular Reference to Athens
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Author Description
This book is the first to examine how classical Greek cavalry actually operated on the battlefield. It looks at its prime characteristics, including mobility, protection, armament, training, leadership, flexibility, and motivation. Until now, it was generally assumed that ancient Greek cavalry was subordinated to the infantry because it was less effective in battle. This book challenges this assumption, analyzing the position of Greek cavalry, and especially the Athenian arm, not only in the battlefield but in society as a whole.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This book investigates the operational reality and social standing of cavalry in classical Greece, specifically challenging the long-held assumption that it was merely a subordinate arm to the infantry. Author I. G. Spence utilizes historical analysis and military records to reconstruct the role of the Athenian cavalry, arguing that these units possessed a level of tactical flexibility and social significance that has been historically overlooked by scholars.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A detailed examination of battlefield mobility, armament, and leadership structures within Greek cavalry units.
- An analysis of the social integration of the cavalry class within the Athenian political and economic framework.
- A comparative study of cavalry effectiveness versus traditional infantry-centric warfare models.
- Evidence-based reassessment of historical military doctrine regarding the utility of mounted forces in the classical period.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Historians and classicists recognize this work as a foundational text for understanding the specific mechanics of ancient Greek mounted warfare. Scholars frequently cite the book for its ability to bridge the gap between technical military history and broader social analysis of the Athenian state.
Page Count:
392
Publication Date:
1994-02-17
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0198144822
ISBN-13:
9780198144823
History
Greece_army
Ancient Greece
Military History
Social History
