For most of their classical age, Greek armies were purely infantry. A town’s adult male population served in the ranks, fighting with long spear and sword, carrying the round hoplon shield, and wearing the crested helmet, a breastplate, and greaves (on the shins). Although hoplite battle was generally simple, and usually brief because of its violence, it required firm discipline and some training. Moving and fighting in dense formations with heavy equipment and weapons required practice. Training and drill took place regularly at an Academy, or school, or similar institution.
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