HIST 205 Lecture 6: HIST 205- Ancient Mediterranean History-LECTURE 6- Hoplites and Citizens.docx
14 Nov 2014
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Greece becomes a smaller and smaller place. Sparta through laconia and messenia in the 8th century. Corinth and the isthumus of corinth c. 700 over trade. Trade and diversification of labour (not just farmers any more) Panhoplia= the entire kit of a hoplite. Phalanx= the close rectangular formation in which hoplites fought. Effectiveness depended on how well it could be maintained in combat. Breastplate; bronze helmet with cheek plates greaves a bowl- shaped wooden shield c. 1 min in diameter. Weapons: spear, c. 2. 5 m long plus a c. 60 cm thrusting, close combat sword (). Seasonal warfare conducted by amateur soldiers- but still meritocracy. Sense that they should be rewarded for fighting. But still men of means, middle- class. After campaign they go home, back to work. Rising influence of middle classes, who gain support from lower classes against aristocracies. Leads to civic unrest and disagreement over privileges, government, and participation- statis.
