Unit Cohesion and Warfare in the Ancient World: Military and Social Approaches

This book explores the concept of unit cohesion in ancient armies and how it contributed to the making of war in the Mediterranean world. It takes a varied approach to the subject, looking at individual groups within larger armies, juxtaposing vertical and horizontal types of cohesion, and providing a more detailed understanding of how groups were kept together. Examples from across the ancient Mediterranean are explored, from Classical Greece to Late Antiquity, with topics such as how armies and units cohere during the sacking of cities, Roman standards as a focus of religious cohesion, and how the multi-ethnic mercenary armies of Carthage cohered. Modern approaches to social cohesion are deployed throughout, and the essays serve as an important complement to existing literature on unit cohesion.

Format: Hardback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate realm of unit cohesion within ancient armies, shedding light on its profound impact on the making of war in the Mediterranean world. Through a diverse and comprehensive approach, it explores various facets of military cohesion, ranging from the individual bonds between soldiers to the contrasting dynamics of vertical and horizontal cohesion. By providing a detailed examination of how groups were held together, this volume offers a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that facilitated cohesion within ancient military formations.

Within the broader concept of "unit cohesion," this volume delves into specific aspects of military cohesion in the ancient Mediterranean world. It examines the commitment of individual soldiers to one another, the hierarchical structure that maintained armies and units, and the social cohesion that emerged through various social activities and aspects of social power. Examples from across the ancient Mediterranean are explored, spanning from Classical Greece to Late Antiquity. These examples include the cohesiveness of armies and units during city sackings, the role of Roman standards as a focal point of religious cohesion, and the unique dynamics of the multi-ethnic mercenary armies of Carthage.

Modern approaches to social cohesion are integrated throughout the book, serving as a valuable complement to existing literature on unit cohesion. These essays provide valuable insights and perspectives, enriching our understanding of the complex interplay between military cohesion and warfare in the ancient world.

Unit Cohesion and Warfare in the Ancient World holds immense appeal to students and scholars engaged in the study of ancient warfare, military history, and military studies. It also serves as a valuable resource for those interested in exploring the ancient Mediterranean world more broadly, offering a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives.

Weight: 517g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138045859