How Did a Greek Hoplite Go to War? (5th Century BC) DOCUMENTARY

Summary by Krater

This video explores how a 5th-century BC Greek hoplite prepared for war, detailing the step-by-step process of setting up camp, getting equipped with greaves, a chiton, linothorax or bronze cuirass, and an aspis shield, and the rigorous training regimens they underwent.

From the video

Answers: How did a Greek hoplite prepare for war?

• Hoplite armor preparation
• Linothorax manufacturing and durability
• Bronze cuirass and greaves
• Aspis shield construction and tactics
• Hoplite camp life and hygiene
• Hoplite military training and combat tactics

What it concludes

• Linothorax armor was surprisingly strong while being cheaper, lighter, and cooler than bronze or iron counterparts.
• A linothorax could stop arrows and turn aside a sword, making it a sturdy and reliable form of chest armor for Greek armies.
• The heavy aspis shield transformed a soldier into a true heavy infantryman and could be balanced against the shoulder and thigh to reduce fatigue.