The Greek warhorse: Breeding, training and military role.

摘要

The introduction of mounted soldiers in the Greek world revolutionized ancient Greek warfare. Cavalry was a late addition to the Greek army and in most parts of Greece it played a rather insignificant role, deployed only to harass the flanks of the enemy or to hold off opposing cavalry. It was not until the reign of Alexander the Great that Greek cavalry reached its full potential. During his Asian campaigns Alexander exploited this relatively ignored tactical arm in an entirely new manner. This thesis will discuss the evolution of Greek cavalry from its origins in chariot warfare to its role in the army of Alexander. It will focus on the development of the warhorse: how breeding, training, equine physiology and behaviour influenced its role in battle.