ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by exploring the context of Hellenistic warfare, especially the realities of a world dominated by powerful kings. Individual poleis did still exist, and engaged in their own campaigns, as they jockeyed for position. Next, the chapter considers the challenges the Hellenistic powers faced in terms of fielding military forces, before turning to tactical innovations, including new cavalry types, the hybrid soldier called the thureophoros, and exotic weapons such as elephants. The chapter compares Hellenistic armies to the Roman legion, and ends by looking at two Hellenistic leaders, Pyrrhus of Epirus and Hannibal of Carthage.
