Practice Field

As warfare developed tactics became more organised and required disciplined training to carry out. The phalanx of hoplites was among the most intimidating battle formations: troops were trained to hold out their sarissas, or long pikes, between their overlapping hoplon shields to create an impenetrable wall. The massed ranks behind the front line added weight to the attack. Hellenistic armies used this traditional Greek tactic to great effect. In time, the phalanx developed from a manoeuvrable formation to a massive unit that could overrun anything that stood in its way. Providing its flanks were protected, and on flat ground, the phalanx was hugely effective. It could be used as the main line of attack or to lock the enemy in position while the cavalry swept round to attack the flanks and rear. However, on rough terrain or when the wings or rear of the phalanx were exposed, it proved somewhat unwieldy and vulnerable.