Talk:Sarissa

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Could we maybe get a picture? Cameron Nedland 03:25, 30 January 2006 (UTC)

[edit] Length

What is the evidence for the length of a Sarissa being 13-21 Feet? Polybius indicates a length of 14-16 Cubits or 21-24 Feet. Phillip II is supposed to have increased the length of the Macedonian Hoplite Spear, but the sources conflict as to by how much and the original length is itself unknown. Also, what is the evidence for this weapon having been divided into two pieces on the march? I have heard this assertion before, but I think it was a modern supposition, rather than derived from Ancient Sources or Archaeological Evidence. M.J.Stanham

[edit] Deflecting Arrows

The article states, "The back rows bore their pikes angled upwards in readiness, which served the additional purpose to deflect incoming arrows." I think this needs supporting evidence.

Polybius makes this assertion:

http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/polybius-maniple.html

I have to admit that I can't really imagine quite how it works, though. M.J.Stanham

It works if you consider size. As an infantryman, you would probably not notice anything if your comrades were killed, but as a commander even a small amount of slowed or deflected arrows would result in significantly less fatal casualties. Even clipping the blade of the spear would have lowered the velocity of the arrow.

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