Roman Legionary AD 69–161

Ross Cowan, Seán Ó’Brógáin (Illustrator)

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English

Osprey
20 May 2012

History; European history; Classical history & classical civilisation; Military history; Special & elite forces

Series: Warrior

Between AD 69 and 161 the composition of the Roman legions was transformed. Italians were almost entirely replaced by provincial recruits, men for whom Latin was at best a second language, and yet the ‘Roman-ness’ of these Germans, Pannonians, Spaniards, Africans and Syrians, fostered in isolated fortresses on the frontiers, was incredibly strong. They were highly competitive, jealous of their honour, and driven by the need to maintain and enhance their reputations for virtus, that is manly courage and excellence. The warfare of the period, from the huge legion versus legion confrontations in the Civil War of AD 69, through the campaigns of conquest in Germany, Dacia and Britain, to the defence of the frontiers of Africa and Cappadocia and the savage quelling of internal revolts, gave ample opportunity for virtus-enhancing activity. The classic battle formation that had baffled Pyrrhus and conquered Hannibal was revived. Heroic centurions continued to lead from the front, and common legionaries vied with them in displays of valour. The legions of the era may have been provincial but they were definitely Roman in organisation and ethos.

By: Ross Cowan
Illustrated by: Seán Ó’Brógáin (Illustrator)
Imprint: Osprey
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Volume: 166
Dimensions: Height: 248mm, Width: 184mm, Spine: 7mm
Weight: 136g
ISBN: 9781780965871
ISBN 10: 1780965877
Series: Warrior
Pages: 64
Publication Date: 20 May 2012
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Introduction /Recruitment and terms of service /Training /The tactical organization of the Legion /Equipment and appearance /On campaign /Battle /After the battle /Glossary /Index

Ross Cowan went to the University of Glasgow with the intention of studying Medieval history but was waylaid by Classics, and eventually emerged with a Ph.D. for research on the Praetorian Guard and Second Parthian Legion. Now a freelance writer and historian, Dr Cowan has published on all aspects of warfare in the Roman World. Sean O'Brogain lives and works in Donegal, Ireland. He has a BA (Hons) in scientific and natural history illustration from Blackpool and Fylde College (Lancaster University).

Reviews for Roman Legionary AD 69–161

"""Archaeological relics blend with other color illustrations to accompany a detailed discussion of centurions and legionnaires, discussing cavalrymen and foot soldiers alike in a pick recommended for any early military history holding."" --The Midwest Book Review (July 2013)"