As an amateur military historian the nature of the hoplite has me confused. If I am correct the Southern Greek hoplites used short spears overhand and large shields as their primary fighting stance. They would make shield walls and stab over their shields ( Like in the film Troy).

Macedonians used the sassara (sp) type of fighting stance which was a lng pike held by 2 hands, with a shield strapped to one hand.

Am I corrct in both these assumptions? Did either Greek state change their fighting stance over time? Any feedback would be greatly appreiciated.