Description

Book Synopsis
One of the most feared weapons in the ancient world, the gladius was lethal both on the battlefield and in the arena. Literary sources tell of the terror it inspired, while archaeological evidence of wounds inflicted is testament to its deadly effect. By pulling together strands of literary, sculptural and archaeological evidence renowned expert M.C. Bishop creates a narrative of the gladius' development, exploring the way in which the shape of the short sword changed as soldiers and gladiators evolved their fighting style. Drawing together historical accounts, excavated artefacts and the results of the latest scientific analyses of the blades, this volume reveals the development, technology, training and use of the gladius hispaniensis: the sword that conquered the Mediterranean.

Table of Contents
Introduction / Development / Use / Impact / Conclusion / Bibliography / Index

The Gladius

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    A Paperback / softback by M.C. Bishop, Peter Dennis

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      Book details

      Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
      Published 17 November 2016
      ISBN-13 9781472815859
      978-1472815859
      ISBN-10 1472815858
      Also in:
      History Ancient history European history: medieval period, middle ages European history: the Romans

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      One of the most feared weapons in the ancient world, the gladius was lethal both on the battlefield and in the arena. Literary sources tell of the terror it inspired, while archaeological evidence of wounds inflicted is testament to its deadly effect. By pulling together strands of literary, sculptural and archaeological evidence renowned expert M.C. Bishop creates a narrative of the gladius' development, exploring the way in which the shape of the short sword changed as soldiers and gladiators evolved their fighting style. Drawing together historical accounts, excavated artefacts and the results of the latest scientific analyses of the blades, this volume reveals the development, technology, training and use of the gladius hispaniensis: the sword that conquered the Mediterranean.

      Table of Contents
      Introduction / Development / Use / Impact / Conclusion / Bibliography / Index

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