the early seventh century show the use of the large round hoplite shield. The Chigi
vase, a Protocorinthian wine jug found in an Etruscan grave-site and dated to the
middle of the seventh century, shows its use by soldiers drawn up in files against each
other in battle formation about to use their spears (fig. 12).
The innovation consisted in the way in which the shield was fitted with a strap
handle from the rim to the centre through which the soldier put his left forearm. This
secured the shield closer to the body more firmly and made it easier to sustain the
weight than if simply held in the hand. But strapped as it was to the left, the right
side of the soldier was exposed when he advanced. However, in a close packed line,
the shield was large enough for the soldier’s right side to be protected by the shield
of his neighbour. This is the beginning of the distinctive phalanx formation adopted
in time by all the Greeks. Phalanx battles, fought on the open plain, consisted of ranks
of closely packed men several files deep, first marching against the enemy then,
when near, charging together, using their thrusting spear, pushing and shoving in
unison in an attempt to overwhelm the opposition by co-ordinated pushing power.
These are the tactics used successfully at Marathon and Plataea against the Persians.
48 THE GREEKS
FIGURE 12 The Chigi vase, a Protocorinthian wine jug, c. 700–650 BC; it dates to when
the hoplite form of warfare was being introduced throughout the Greek world. The flute
players precede the army, as in the case of the Spartans, and the artist has tried to
convey the idea of two lines of hoplites, the phalanx. The hoplites on each side jab each
other with their spears. They wear breast-plates and greaves, carry shields and wear
crested helmets but are barefoot. Villa Giulia 22679, Rome.
Source:Image © Soprintendenza per i beni archeologici dell’Etruria Meridionale