Graduate Student, School of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology
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Dr. Phil Freeman
Dr. Michael Sommer |
About
My PhD examines the archaeology of Greek and Roman warfare, incorporating approaches and methodologies from battlefield/conflict archaeology. In the past, ancient battle has been the preserve of the ancient historian, with ancient textual sources often the primary base of evidence. While the topography of ancient battlefields is now considered, the study of ancient battle has been slow to embrace the discipline of battlefield/conflict archaeology outside of charting weaponry developments and typologies. To date four ancient battlefields have been excavated- Himera (480 BC), Baecula (208 BC), Kalkriese (AD 9), and the Harzhorn (C3 AD); each has developed our understanding of ancient battle, and in the case of the Harzhorn, the Roman world- until this battlefield was discovered, it was not known that the Romans were involved in any activity at this time in this area, over 100 miles away from the cotemporary frontier.
This research considers both the site and landscape archaeology of ancient battlefields, approaching the subject from several angles. Firstly, the challenges of locating ancient battlefield sites are considered, addressing the problems associated with ancient textual sources and developing methodologies which take into account these problems. This element also involves the use of techniques primarily developed for use in landscape archaeology, such as regional and aerial survey, as well as incorporating understanding of the ancient landscape and of ancient army logistics.
Secondly, my research is examining the nature of ancient battlefield archaeological assemblages. Using the published material from Himera, Baecula, Kalkriese, and the Harzhorn I am developing an understanding of the likely battlefield assemblages, working towards better understanding, recognition, and verification of ancient battlefield archaeology. This also involves understanding of the techniques most suited to the exploration and verification of ancient battlefield sites, and how far the methodology employed on medieval and modern sites must be adapted for use on ancient sites.
The third element of my research addresses the use of this evidence, both on the battlefield itself and in the wider landscape context. Ancient battlefield archaeology may be of use in developing a better understanding of the realities of Roman warfare and battle. Studies such as Keegan’s The Face of Battle have aimed to establish what the experience of battle was like for the average soldier through history. While similar work has been done for the Greek and Roman soldier, it has been based largely on ancient sources; archaeology may be able to reveal whether the physical evidence matches the image suggested through the texts. Battlefield archaeology may also be able to illuminate other aspects of ancient warfare, such as the supply and habitation of troops, army logistics, and historically unknown campaigns.
