Lesson 5: Athenian Society
Citizens and Hoplites
Although citizenship brought with it many privileges, it was not without its obligations.
Throughout the fifth century, the Athenians maintained what was essentially a citizen army. It was only in the fourth century that the use of professional soldiers became widespread.
Every Athenian citizen was eligible for military service during the campaigning season.
In practice, it was not the entire citizen body that was called out for military service. Lists would be posted in public places naming those who would have to report for military service.
The backbone of the Athenian army was the "hoplite".
Greek "hoplites" were essentially heavy infantry. The hoplite usually provided his own arms and armour.
Hoplites were usually armed with a spear. In classical times, it was the spear and not the sword which was the nobleman's weapon. (The conflict between Hector and Achilles in the Iliad, for example, consists of the two heroes throwing spears at each other)
Hoplites were also equipped with a helmet, breastplate, greaves (metal shin-guards) and a large round shield. The round shield was known as a "hoplon", and it is thought that this is where the word 'hoplite' comes from.
In addition to the hoplites, there were also lightly armed troops which were usually used for skirmishing purposes and as support troops.
These lightly armed forces were often made up of foreign mercenaries.
