The army that emerged from the reforms of Philip II
of Macedon proved to be without equal in the period
covered and one of the most successful in the whole of
the ancient period. Much has been written on aspects of
Macedonian warfare, particularly the generalship of it's
most famous proponent, Alexander the Great, yet many
studies retread the same paths and draw conclusion on
the same narrow evidential base, while leaving important
aspects and sources of information untouched. David
Karunanithy concentrates on filling the gaps in existing
studies, presenting and studying evidence frequently
overlooked or ignored. The book is divided into four
sections, each presenting a wealth of detail on various
aspects: Preparation (including chapters on training
techniques, various aspects of arms and armour
production and supply and the provision and management
of cavalry mounts); Support (eg non-combatant
specialists, bridge building, field engineering,
construction of field camps and little-known combat
units in Asia); Dress and Battle Equipment (drawing on
much neglected evidence and including such details as
officers' plumes, wreaths and finger rings); Alexander's
Veterans and Life on Campaign (the Silver Shields;
baggage trains and personal kit, servants and families,
camp life and recreation..). In addition there are
useful appendices summarising evidence for the
appearance of troops. Karunanithy analyses this wealth
of detail with real insight, for example suggesting that
in some areas, such as the use of marching camps, the
Macedonian influence on Roman armies has been
underestimated. His meticulous research allows a much
fuller portrait to be painted of this awesome war
machine. This is an absolute must-have for anyone with
an interest in the armies of Alexander and his
Successors
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