THIS IS SPARTA
by: Summer Sanford and Elena Cordova
What is Sparta and why is it important
Spartan Gallery
Kopis
The main purpose of the Spartan shield was defensive; however Spartans also used it to bash their opponents. This could be to stun them, knock them down or get some room to use another weapon. The shield could also be used as a killing weapon outright, its weight and thin edge making it a superb blunt weapon. The hoplite shield, or aspis (although it is commonly called a ‘hoplon’), was heavy, weighing about 30 pounds. They were constructed out of wood with an outer layer of bronze. Due to its defensive nature, Spartans using it as a weapon could gain the advantage of surprise. Being clubbed to death by heavy shield may have even been more unpleasant then being hacked apart by a Kopis!
Spartan Helmets
Spartans favored these helmets because they were made out of bronze because it was a strong material.
Spartan Shield
Spartan Shields were very important to Sparta because a Spartan could lose his helmet or breastplate with impunity but would be disgraced if he threw away his shield. It came in three layers with the center made of thick wood with bronze on the outside facing the enemy and leather on the inside. The revolutionary Argive-style handle on the inside allowed the left arm to slide in the arm band up to the forearm while the left hand gripped the handle for better control.
Spartan/ Greek Shoes
All Greek men typically went barefoot for almost all of their outdoor physical activity; farming, hunting, exercise, traveling, etc. so it would be expected that warfare would be no different. Spartan boys were forbidden to wear shoes even in the winter lest their feet become soft. Sandals were sometimes worn as were boots under certain circumstances.