The Gladius

The Roman Short Sword

The Gladius cover

Description

One of the most feared weapons in the ancient world, the gladius was lethal both on the battlefield and in the arena. Literary sources tell of the terror it inspired, while archaeological evidence of wounds inflicted is testament to its deadly effect. By pulling together strands of literary, sculptural, and archaeological evidence, renowned expert M.C. Bishop creates a narrative of the gladius' development, exploring the way in which the shape of the short sword changed as soldiers and gladiators evolved their fighting style.

Drawing together historical accounts, excavated artifacts, and the results of the latest scientific analyses of the blades, this volume reveals the development, technology, training and use of the gladius hispaniensis: the sword that conquered the Mediterranean.

Table of Contents

Introduction / Development / Use / Impact / Conclusion / Bibliography / Index

Product details

Published Nov 22 2016
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 80
ISBN 9781472815859
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 64 col
Dimensions 248 x 184 mm
Series Weapon
Short code WPN 51
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

M.C. Bishop

Writer, publisher and archaeologist M.C. Bishop is…

Illustrator

Peter Dennis

Peter Dennis was inspired by contemporary magazine…

Resources

Book Vote

Tell us what titles you would like to see published by Osprey, then vote for your favourites in our monthly book vote!

Related Titles

Sign up for Osprey membership for access to thousands of plane profiles, maps, battle scenes and more. Plus up to 30% off website purchases