Macedonian Phalanx
The phalanx is an infantry formation, characterized by dense ranks and pikes (sarissas).
Composition
Equipment
Helmets ranges from simple, open-faced affairs to stylized Thracian models (complete with mask-like cheek protectors that often imitated a human face). Body armor ranges from a cuirass of hardened linen (the linothorax), which may or may not be reinforced/decorated with metal scales to metallic (typically bronze or steel) breastplates.
The phalangite's shield is a 2-foot (0.61 m)-diameter affair and less concave than the hoplite's aspis. It is secured by both a shoulder harness and a fore-arm brace, allowing the off-hand to release the hand-grip and make wielding the enormous sarissa pike possible. Metallic greaves are worn (especially by the front and rear-most ranks) to cover the shins of the soldier as he stands his ground.
Weaponry
The primary weapon of the phalangite is the sarissa, a massive spear that ranged from 16 feet (mid-late 4th century BCE) to as much as 22 feet.
In the event of close combat, or in circumstances where the sarissa is impractical, a variety of swords may employed.
Tactics
In battle the phalangists form battle lines 16-32 ranks deep. The first five ranks of the phalanx will lower their sarissai horizontally to face the enemy, with the remaining ranks angling theirs in a serried fashion, often leaning against their fellows' backs. If front-rankers are killed, those behind will lower their spears and step forward to maintain a solid front.
The phalanx has two density orders: pyknosis, the standard battle order in which each man occupies 3’ of frontage; and synaspismos (“locked shields”), in which each man occupies a mere 1.5’ frontage. This latter density is only used to receive an assault, and is seldom used when a phalanx is advancing as it allows little room for maneuver.
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