The Roman Army from Caesar to Trajan

by Michael Simkins

Book Overview

Although the common Roman fighting men themselves have left no account, much literature has survived from antiquity. The wealth of archaeological finds, plus the study of surviving Roman scultpure has allowed hisorians to learn much about the nature of the Roman army which conquered an astonishing expanse of territory. Michael Simkins brings all his substantial knowledge to bear on this fascinating subject, covering such topics as army composition,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0850455286
• ISBN13: 9780850455281
• Release Date: March 1984
• Publisher: Osprey Publishing (UK)
• Length: 48 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 7.2" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

A Good Little Reference Book

The author and illustrator did an excellent job of breaking down the various items of Roman armor and weapons. The author's descriptions of the various shields, swords, and body armor is very detailed. The illustrator also does an excellent job. The book contains several pages of color drawings which depict various Roman soldiers at different points in history. The photographs in the book, however, do not show authentic artifacts. They do show accurate recreations of Roman hardware. In addition to the book's analysis of Roman war material, it contains a very concise chronology of Roman history. There is also a listing of where the various legions were stationed around the world. Bottom line: This is a great little reference book on Roman weapons and armor. At 40 pages, it is also a quick read.

Roman Army from Caesar to Trajan (Men at Arms Series 46)

Product arrived in good condition. It has proved a valuable tool in my study of the Romans.

Excellent book for starting your research!

This book has been around since the mid-1980's. It is well worth adding to your library of Roman Military books! The color drawings are not as fancy as the new style Osprey, but they show the details of Uniforms and equipments. The photographs and line drawings are excellent and make this well worth adding. Modern gladius copies use these sketches as the pattern for the decorations on scabbards. The descriptions and introductions of the Roman equipment are a good place to start learning. Don't expect the artistic styles of later Osprey works, instead, you will find good scholarship from a master craftsman of Roman military equipment.