On Horsemanship by Xenophon
page 51 of 54 (94%)
page 51 of 54 (94%)
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"Where the collar-bone fenceth off neck and breast, and where is
the most deadly spot" (W. Leaf). As to the helmet, the best kind, in our opinion, is one of the Boeotian pattern,[3] on the principle again, that it covers all the parts exposed above the breastplate without hindering vision. Another point: the corselet should be so constructed that it does not prevent its wearer sitting down or stooping. About the abdomen and the genitals and parts surrounding[4] flaps should be attached in texture and in thickness sufficient to protect[5] that region. [3] Schneider cf. Aelian, "V. H." iii. 24; Pollux, i. 149. [4] Schneider cf. "Anab." IV. vii. 15, and for {kai ta kuklo}, conj. {kuklo}, "the abdomen and middle should be encircled by a skirt." [5] Lit. "let there be wings of such sort, size, and number as to protect the limbs." Again, as an injury to the left hand may disable the horseman, we would recommend the newly-invented piece of armour called the gauntlet, which protects the shoulder, arm, and elbow, with the hand engaged in holding the reins, being so constructed as to extend and contract; in addition to which it covers the gap left by the corselet under the armpit. The case is different with the right hand, which the horseman must needs raise to discharge a javelin or strike a blow. Here, accordingly, any part of the corselet which would hinder action out to be removed; in place of which the corselet ought to have some extra flaps[6] at the joints, which as the outstretched arm is raised unfold, and as the arm descends close tight again. The arm itself,[7] |
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