Notes on Representations of Hoplites with Double Spears in Archaic Greek Art and the Usage of Javelins and Spears by the Archaic Phalanx

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to answer questions concerning the usage of spears and javelins by the warriors of Archaic Greece. More precisely, the possibility of the hoplites using javelins as an offensive weapon when fighting in the phalanx formation will be examined through the analysis of contemporary iconographical sources. The article will also present how depictions of hoplites with double spears could be interpreted and used within the theory of Archaic Greek warfare and examine the reliability of such images.

Keywords

• ancient Greek warfare
• spear
• phalanx
• Archaic art