Greek and Roman Military Manuals: Genre and History

This volume explores the ancient military manual as a genre, examining its reflection of warfare practices from early Archaic Greece to the Byzantine period. Contributions from scholars cover a wide range of topics, including readership, siege warfare, mercenaries, defeat, textual history, and religion. It reveals the complex ways in which ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines sought to understand and impose order upon war.

Format: Hardback
Length: 298 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the enigmatic realm of ancient military manuals, shedding light on their enigmatic nature and their role in shaping warfare practices throughout history. The book explores the extent to which these diverse texts can be categorized as a distinct genre, often challenging traditional classifications such as 'technical literature.' It also examines the degree to which these manuals reflect the actual practices of warfare, considering the various factors that influenced their composition and dissemination.

Contributions from a diverse range of scholars bring forth a wealth of knowledge and insights, as the chapters examine military manuals from early Archaic Greece to the Byzantine period. The coverage spans a wide spectrum of topics, including readership, siege warfare, mercenaries, defeat, textual history, and religion. Notable figures such as Xenophon, Frontinus, Vegetius, and Maurice are extensively discussed, providing valuable perspectives on their contributions to the field.

Through a meticulous examination of these texts, the book reveals the intricate ways in which ancient Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines sought to comprehend and impose order upon the seemingly irrational phenomenon of war. It uncovers the philosophical, tactical, and religious considerations that shaped their approaches to warfare, shedding light on the complex interplay between strategy, tactics, and cultural beliefs.

This volume serves as a valuable resource for students and scholars of warfare and military literature in the classical and Byzantine periods. It provides a comprehensive examination of the genre of military manuals, offering insights into their historical development, content, and significance. By exploring the complexities of ancient warfare, the book contributes to our understanding of the rich tapestry of military history and the enduring legacies of these ancient texts.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138335141