ABSTRACT
Chapter 5 begins by broadly examining tradition and originality in Byzantine literature and how relevant scholarly views have evolved over time. The chapter then focuses on identifying tradition and originality in the Sylloge Tacticorum. The material of the treatise is studied comparatively with its sources and adaptations, additions and shifts in attitude are highlighted. The chapter argues that classical authors, like Onasander, Julian Africanus and Polyaenus, were updated to meet the contemporary Byzantine context with regard to perceptions of warfare, religion and morality. The chapter also underlines the original material of the treatise which concern battle formations, units, tactics and equipment. These are studied comparatively with the tenth-century Byzantine strategic and tactical needs, as well as with anterior and posterior manuals, like the Taktika of Leo VI or the Praecepta Militaria of Nikephoros II Phokas, in an attempt to highlight the gradual evolution that took place over the decades and to determine the place that the Sylloge Tacticorum holds in the development of Byzantine warfare.
