Legionary: The Roman Soldier's (Unofficial) Manual

by Philip Matyszak

Overview

An insider's guide: how to join the Roman legions, wield a gladius, storm cities, and conquer the world

Your emperor needs you for the Roman army! The year is AD 100 and Rome stands supreme and unconquerable from the desert sands of Mesopotamia to the misty highlands of Caledonia. Yet the might of Rome rests completely on the armored shoulders of the legionaries who hold back the barbarian hordes and push forward the frontiers of empire.

This carefully researched yet entertainingly nonacademic book tells you how to join the Roman legions, the best places to serve, and how to keep your armor from getting rusty. Learn to march under the eagles of Rome, from training, campaigns, and battle to the glory of a Roman Triumph and retirement with a pension plan. Every aspect of army life is discussed, from drill to diet, with handy tips on topics such as how to select the best boots or how to avoid being skewered by enemy spears. Combining the latest archaeological discoveries with the written records of those who actually saw the Roman legions in action, this book provides a vivid picture of what it meant to be a Roman legionary.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780500771747
Publisher:	Thames & Hudson
Publication date:	10/21/2013
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	208
File size:	27 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Philip Matyszak has a doctorate in Roman history from St John’s College, Oxford. He is the author of numerous books on the ancient world, including Forgotten Peoples of the Ancient World, The Greek and Roman Myths, The Gods and Goddesses of Greece and Rome, and Ancient Magic.

Table of Contents

I Joining the Roman Army 6

II The Prospective Recruit's Good Legion Guide 16

III Alternative Military Careers 33

IV Legionary Kit and Equipment 52

V Training, Discipline and Ranks 78

VI People Who Will Want to Kill You 94

VII Life in Camp 115

VIII On Campaign 128

IX How to Storm a City 149

X Battle 165

XI Aftermath 183

Map of the Roman Empire 198

Glossary 200

Acknowledgments 202

Further Reading 202

Sources of Illustrations 203

Index 204

Editorial Reviews

Adult/High School—Written as if it were a guidebook for the young recruit about to join the Roman legions in A.D.100, as well as for the seasoned legionary, this highly informative and readable volume lays out in detail the high honor and great risk of defending Rome as a foot soldier. Readers learn who was allowed to join the legions and under what circumstances; how one was selected by the legion of one's choice (there were 28); how they were structured; how a kit was kept tidy and a sword sharp; how much walking and how much digging were expected (a lot of both); how one fought and conquered various enemies, from Berbers to Picts to Parthians; how the system of ranks worked (not in the favor of those looking for career advancement); how to unload (finally!) a pilum; how to storm a city; how to plan for and enjoy life as a pensioner (some did make it); and much more. The author knows his subject thoroughly and presents it with flare, a touch of humor, and authority. The many illustrations, including 16 color plates, add measurably to the enjoyment of the book. Also helpful are several sidebars, quotes from writers of the Roman era, a glossary, and an index. For anyone who has ever wondered what it was like to march in the armies of Augustus and Caesar and Trajan, Legionary will more than satisfy.—Robert Saunderson, formerly at Berkeley Public Library, CA

School Library Journal

"A fascinating little handbook of serious scholarship and irrepressible wit, Legionary vividly illuminates military life in ancient Rome."

Boston Sunday Globe

"A very useful introduction to military practice in the late First Century."

New York Military Affairs Symposium