What was the main weapon of a hoplite?
Q: What was the main weapon of a hoplite?
A: The main weapon of a hoplite was their spear.
Q: How did hoplites fight in battle?
A: Hoplites fought close together in what was called a phalanx formation. In this formation, each man's shield protected himself and also gave some protection to the right arm of the man on his left.
Q: What type of armour did a hoplite wear?
A: A hoplite wore helmet with face covered shield, body armour, greaves (leg armour), sword and spear.
Q: Who supplied their own armour and weapons?
A: A hoplite usually supplied their own armour and weapons.
Q: How were Spartans renowned for their military prowess?
A: The citizens of Sparta were renowned for their lifelong combat training and military prowess.
Q: How did the phalanx work as a team in battle?
A: The first row would stab at their opponents while trying to maintain close formation. The ranks behind would support them with their spears and gently push them with their shields, not to force them into the enemy but to keep them steady and in position. Upon command of an officer, the phalanx would take a certain number of steps forward.
Q: Why were experienced hoplites placed on the right side of the phalanx?
A: Experienced hoplites were often placed on the right side of the phalanx because it was more vulnerable than the left due to being unprotected by neighboring shields.
