Glossary
Centurions
Experienced Roman military officers who commanded a century (typically 80 men) and were crucial for leading troops, maintaining discipline, and inspiring soldiers in battle.
Example:
The centurions were often the first to lead a charge, inspiring their soldiers through personal bravery and tactical skill.
De Bello Gallico
Julius Caesar's firsthand account of his military campaigns in Gaul, providing crucial insights into Roman military tactics, Gallic culture, and Caesar's political ambitions.
Example:
Students often read excerpts from De Bello Gallico to understand Roman military strategy and Caesar's distinctive Latin prose.
Fortuna
The Roman goddess of luck or fate, whose influence is often emphasized in Caesar's writings to explain unpredictable turns of events, both favorable and unfavorable, in battle.
Example:
Caesar often attributed unexpected victories or defeats to the whims of Fortuna, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of war.
Gladius
The standard Roman short sword, primarily used for thrusting in close-quarters combat, making it highly effective in tight formations.
Example:
After throwing their javelins, Roman soldiers would draw their gladius and engage the enemy hand-to-hand.
Interdependence
The mutual reliance between individuals, highlighted by Pullo and Vorenus saving each other despite their rivalry, demonstrating the critical importance of mutual support within the Roman army.
Example:
The success of the legion depended on the interdependence of its soldiers, each relying on the others for survival and victory.
Munitiones
Fortifications or defenses, such as ramparts, trenches, or walls, built by Roman legions to protect their camps, siege positions, or strategic locations.
Example:
The Roman camp was well-protected by strong munitiones, making it difficult for the enemy to assault directly.
Pilum
A heavy Roman javelin, designed to be thrown before engaging in close combat, often with a soft iron shank that would bend upon impact to render enemy shields useless.
Example:
The Roman soldier hurled his pilum with force, hoping to pierce the enemy's shield and disrupt their formation.
Pullo
A Roman centurion in Caesar's army, known for his intense rivalry with Vorenus and his daring, though sometimes reckless, bravery in battle.
Example:
Pullo charged ahead of the fortifications, eager to prove his valor and outshine his rival.
Rivalry
A state of competing for superiority, often seen between individuals like Pullo and Vorenus, which in the Roman context could drive soldiers to extraordinary acts of valor.
Example:
The intense rivalry between the two athletes pushed them both to achieve personal bests, much like Pullo and Vorenus in battle.
Scutum
The large, rectangular Roman shield, typically made of wood and covered with leather, used for protection and as a key component in formation tactics like the *testudo*.
Example:
The legionaries formed a testudo with their scutum to protect themselves from a barrage of enemy arrows.
Vallo
A rampart or palisade, often a key part of larger fortifications, typically constructed from earth and timber for defensive purposes.
Example:
The soldiers stood guard on the vallo, watching for any signs of enemy movement beyond their defenses.
Vorenus
A Roman centurion in Caesar's army, rival to Pullo, who also displayed exceptional courage and, despite their competition, provided mutual support in combat.
Example:
When Vorenus saw his rival in trouble, he immediately rushed to his aid, demonstrating the unexpected bond forged in combat.