This review has been submitted to Strategy and Tactics Magazine
Title: Legion versus Phalanx: The Epic Struggle for Infantry
ISBN: 978-1-4728-2842-2
Publisher: Osprey
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 288
Photos/Maps: 44/7
Myke Cole's "Legion versus Phalanx" is a captivating and well-researched exploration of ancient warfare, specifically focusing on the clash between two iconic military formations: the Roman legion and the Greek phalanx. In this book, Cole takes readers on a journey through the ancient world, dissecting the strengths, weaknesses, and tactical nuances of these two dominant forces. The book is delineated between setting the doctrinal environment of each style of warfare in the first half, followed in the second, by an analysis of six major engagements where the protagonists each utilized one of the two methods of combat.
The author begins by setting the historical context and
explaining the origins and evolution of both the legion and the phalanx. He
delves into the cultures and societies that birthed these formations, shedding
light on how they shaped military strategies and influenced the outcomes of
battles. Cole's deep knowledge and passion for the subject matter are evident
in his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to bring these ancient
armies to life.
One of the book's notable strengths is its accessibility.
Cole strikes a balance between scholarly analysis and engaging storytelling,
making the content accessible to both history enthusiasts and casual readers.
He avoids excessive jargon and provides clear explanations of key terms and
concepts, ensuring that readers can follow along without feeling overwhelmed.
The heart of the book lies in the comparisons drawn between
the legion and the phalanx. Cole meticulously dissects their respective
structures, training methods, weapons, and tactics. He examines battles such as
the Battle of Cynoscephalae and the Battle of Pydna to illustrate how these
formations adapted and interacted with each other on the battlefield.
Throughout the book, Cole challenges common misconceptions
and provides a fresh perspective on ancient warfare. He dispels the notion that
the phalanx was an invincible formation and highlights its vulnerabilities
against the more flexible and adaptable legions. Similarly, he showcases the
phalanx's strengths, such as its ability to hold a disciplined line and its
formidable offensive power when facing less organized foes.
One of the book's highlights is Cole's vivid and engaging
writing style. He brings ancient battles to life, describing the chaos,
tension, and brutality of the battlefield in vivid detail. Readers can almost
hear the clash of shields and the cries of soldiers as they march into combat.
Cole's ability to create a palpable sense of urgency and danger is a testament
to his skill as a writer.
While the focus of the book is on the clash between the
legion and the phalanx, Cole also explores other factors that influenced the
outcome of battles, such as leadership, logistics, and terrain. By providing a
broader context, he helps readers understand the complex interplay between
various elements that shaped the outcome of ancient conflicts.
Overall, Cole does make a strong case for the adaptability
and effectiveness of the Roman legion, however, he acknowledges the strengths
of the phalanx and offers a balanced analysis of each. "Legion versus
Phalanx" is a captivating and insightful examination of ancient warfare.
Myke Cole's expertise in military history shines through in his engaging
writing style and meticulous research. Whether you are a history enthusiast or
simply interested in learning more about ancient warfare, this book is a
must-read. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the legion and the
phalanx while highlighting the complexities of ancient military strategies.
No comments:
Post a Comment