Warfare > Hippeis

Hippeis

Background

The Hippeis (Greek: Ἱππεῖς) were the cavalrymen of ancient Greece, particularly prominent in city-states such as Athens and Sparta. The term "hippeis" generally referred to those who fought on horseback, and their role, equipment, and social status varied between different regions and periods in Greek history.

Characteristics and Social Status:

1. Social Class:

   • Athenian Hippeis: In Athens, the hippeis formed the second highest social class in the Solonian system, just below the pentacosiomedimnoi (the wealthiest class). To qualify as a hippeus, a citizen had to own enough property to afford and maintain a horse.
   • Spartan Hippeis: In Sparta, the hippeis were an elite corps of 300 chosen warriors who served as the personal bodyguard of the king. They were selected from the best young warriors and held a prestigious position in Spartan society.

2. Equipment:

   • Armor: Hippeis typically wore lighter armor than hoplites to maintain mobility. This could include a bronze or iron helmet, a breastplate (linothorax), and greaves.
   • Weapons: The primary weapons of the hippeis included a spear (xyston) for thrusting and a short sword (xiphos or kopis) for close combat. They also carried small, round shields called peltes for additional protection.

3. Horses and Gear:

   • Horses: Owning and maintaining a horse was expensive, which limited the hippeis to wealthier citizens. Horses were well-trained for combat and various maneuvers.
   • Saddles and Bridles: Unlike later cavalry, Greek hippeis did not use saddles or stirrups. They relied on skill and balance to stay mounted, using simple bridles to control their horses.

Roles and Tactics:

1. Reconnaissance and Skirmishing:

   • Scouting: One of the primary roles of the hippeis was reconnaissance. They scouted ahead of the main army, gathering intelligence on enemy movements and terrain.
   • Skirmishing: Hippeis were used for skirmishing, engaging enemy light troops and harassing flanks. Their mobility allowed them to strike quickly and withdraw before the enemy could respond effectively.

2. Flanking and Pursuit:

   • Flanking Maneuvers: In battle, the hippeis were often deployed on the flanks of the phalanx. Their speed and maneuverability enabled them to execute flanking attacks, disrupting enemy formations and attacking vulnerable sides and rear.
   • Pursuit of Fleeing Enemies: After the main battle lines engaged, hippeis played a crucial role in pursuing and cutting down fleeing enemies, preventing them from regrouping or escaping.

3. Elite Corps and Personal Guard:

   • Spartan Hippeis: The elite corps of 300 hippeis in Sparta served as the personal guard of the Spartan kings. They were highly trained and selected from the best young warriors, providing both protection and a decisive striking force in battle.
   • Athenian Cavalry: In Athens, the hippeis were organized into two divisions (hipparchies) and commanded by hipparchs. They were a key component of the city's military strategy, particularly during the Peloponnesian War.

Historical Context and Notable Engagements:

1. Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE):

   • Athenian Cavalry: During the Peloponnesian War, the Athenian cavalry was particularly effective in skirmishing and protecting the flanks of their hoplite phalanxes. They also conducted raids into enemy territory and played a significant role in the defense of Attica.
   • Spartan Hippeis: The Spartan hippeis were involved in key battles, providing elite support to the Spartan hoplites and serving as a mobile reserve force that could be deployed where needed most.

2. Battle of Leuctra (371 BCE):

   • Theban Innovations: At the Battle of Leuctra, the Theban general Epaminondas utilized cavalry effectively to exploit weaknesses in the Spartan lines, contributing to the decisive Theban victory and showcasing the evolving role of cavalry in Greek warfare.

3. Macedonian Cavalry:

   • Philip II and Alexander the Great: The Macedonian kings Philip II and Alexander the Great revolutionized the use of cavalry in Greek warfare. The Companions (hetairoi), an elite cavalry unit, became the hammer to the phalanx's anvil, executing decisive charges that broke enemy lines.
   • Integration with Infantry: The effective combination of heavy infantry (phalangites) and cavalry allowed Macedonian armies to achieve unprecedented tactical flexibility and battlefield dominance.

Legacy and Influence:

1. Evolution of Cavalry:

   • Increased Importance: Over time, the importance of cavalry in Greek warfare grew, particularly during the Hellenistic period when armies became more diverse and complex.
   • Influence on Rome: The success of Macedonian cavalry tactics influenced Roman military strategies, leading to the incorporation of more cavalry units in Roman legions and the eventual development of the Roman cavalry.

2. Cultural Significance:

   • Symbol of Status: Being a hippeus was a symbol of social status and wealth in ancient Greece. The ability to serve as a cavalryman indicated significant resources and standing within the community.
   • Depictions in Art and Literature: The hippeis were frequently depicted in Greek art, including vase paintings and sculptures, highlighting their importance in Greek society and warfare. They also appear in various historical texts, reflecting their role in key battles and campaigns.

Conclusion:

The hippeis were a crucial component of ancient Greek military forces, providing mobility, versatility, and elite combat capabilities. Their roles in reconnaissance, skirmishing, flanking, and pursuit complemented the heavier hoplite infantry, enhancing the overall effectiveness of Greek armies. The evolution of cavalry tactics, particularly under the Macedonian kings, showcased the increasing importance of mounted troops in warfare. The legacy of the hippeis is evident in their influence on subsequent military developments and their enduring presence in the cultural memory of ancient Greece.

Sources

Connolly, Peter (2006). Greece and Rome at War. Greenhill Books, p. 40. ISBN 978-1-85367-303-0.

The Theban Sacred Band, James DeVoto in The Ancient World, Vol.XXIII, No.2, 1992.

Greek Warfare