Legacy

While the hoplite presence in warfare is short, it left a lasting effect in both the ancient world and modern society today, as we know it. Currently, the world population is approximately 7 billion people strong, yet it’s very likely that the majority of those people have been exposed to the legacy of the hoplites in one way or form. This section attempts to show the lasting effects the Greek hoplites left on the ancient world, and the continuation of their legacy in today’s society.

 

Legacy in the Ancient World

 All that is known about the ancient Greek world comes from surviving artifacts from that time period whether it is in the form of poetry or armor. Archaeological discoveries provide better insight on the views of society as a whole, and interpreting these views is the arduous job, which scholars have undertaken. Thorough research and excavation has helped scholars to debate and elaborate on their view of the hoplite warrior.

Battle monuments were customary in Greek tradition after triumphs. One of the most famous monuments is the Plataean tripod that was stationed outside the oracle of Delphi’s temple. It was a golden bowl atop of 3 intertwining snakes representing the triumph of the Greek city-states over the Persian invasion force. While the Battle of Plataea wasn’t fought with only hoplites, majority of the forces were comprised of hoplites from 36 different city-states, and were arguably the driving force behind the Greek military offense and defense. Eventually, the tripod was moved to Constantinople (modern day Istanbul), and tourists may now look upon the glory of the Greeks with wonder. Other battle monuments that have been found are a great source of information regarding the evolution of armor in the ancient world.

Material trophies are not the only legacy the hoplites have left. The phalanx style of fighting was so effective in combat that the romans adopted the style of combat and made it their own, and eventually, the hoplites succumbed to the roman improved fighting style of the legionaries. This gave rise to one of the strongest and long lasting kingdoms of all time; the Roman Empire. Their fighting style was based on the skill and fundamentals developed by the Greek hoplites (Lendon 176).

These are but a few examples of the immediate impact the hoplite legacy had on the ancient world.

Legacy in Modern Society

Hoplite history surrounds everyone whether they know it or not. Multiple pop culture entertainment forms have been inspired by the hoplites of old, increasing exposure of the hoplites to the average person. This has become especially apparent in the gaming and movie industries which combine history and romanticism to create an engaging experience. The number one most played game in the world, League of Legends, has a champion armed with a Corinthian helmet, porpax shield, and a spear. Whether the player base understands the history or not, those 3 items have become easily identifiable icons.

In today’s age, the word Spartan is synonymous with indomitable and unyielding. It is a popular way to describe the elite forces in any context paying homage to the ideology that the Greek Spartans were the perfect warrior. This idea of the perfect warrior is romanticized in Zack Snyder’s 2006 blockbuster 300, which tells the story of King Leonidas and his Spartan hoplites at the battle of Thermopylae. While the director made completely historically inaccurate choices for the movie, it provides awareness to the younger audience.

Surprisingly, some derivative of the phalanx shield wall is used by riot officers in today’s age. Shield walls are still utilized in crowd control situations. Ironically, the average unarmed citizen would be much like a light infantry men in the ancient world while the riot officers would represent the Greek hoplites. Modern shields are now stronger and lighter weighing approximately 2.3kg compared to the original bronze propax shield weighing up to 7 kg. While the purpose of the phalanx has changed, the fundamentals of teamwork, physical strength, and mental fortitude can be found in officers and soldiers of today.

Finally, modern day reenactors can be found globally participating in classical battles from any time period including ancient Greece. It can be an incredible source of exercise and joy, and maybe even for a moment, allow the person to believe they were actually experiencing combat in the ancient world.

Conclusion

Not very many moments in history span the test of time, but the indomitable might of the hoplites have stood out like a gem. In some way, shape, or form, the average first world citizen has experienced the hoplites in their own way. The idea of an elite, indomitable force can be traced back to the ancient view of the Spartan warriors, and has significant meaning to the current society. In the end, the hoplites have made an impact that has resonated throughout time.

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