Most close order infantry would rely on formation: you want men close by to cover your sides.

But the Roman soldiers did not use as tight a formation as spearmen, mainly because they used swords (and of course having a short sword only makes it worse)

I believe that is reflected in the shield design too. The heavy rectangular shield (Scutum) gives maximum individual protection but would do no good in a shieldwall as that would prevent the solder from using his weapon to stab with (the best way of using the Gladius)

The oval and especially round shields in combination with spears works better in the tighter shieldwall formation with overlapping shields.

The heavy Scutum and short sword was meant for going in as close as possible and the Scutum was good as a secondary weapon for bashing an opponent too. But they would try and maintain formation for mutual protection.

Of course we should not forget the Pilum and lighter javelin that also was part of the equipment. They was used in the charge to maximise the shock effect and for a longer missile exchange before melee started if the units didnt go in right away.


CBR