What did a Spartan soldier really look like?

Going into battle, a Spartan soldier, or hoplite, wore a large bronze helmet, breastplate and ankle guards, and carried a round shield made of bronze and wood, a long spear and sword. Spartan warriors were also known for their long hair and red cloaks.

How big was a Spartan soldier?

Meaning they grew up to the regular height of their genetics from 175–190 or 5′7 – 6′2, not much shorter or taller. That is unlike how 98\% of the world at the time was. They were also quite toned but by no means bulky, think military muscular which is mostly lean but very fit.

Did Spartan warriors have beards?

The Spartans punished cowards by shaving off a portion of their beards. While in ancient India, they grew long beards as a symbol of dignity and of wisdom. In the east generally beards were greatly venerated and were often cut off as a punishment.

Did Spartans have long hair?

This ancient practice was preserved by the Spartans for many centuries. The Spartan boys always had their hair cut quite short (en chroi keirontes); but as soon as they reached the age of puberty, they let it grow long. They wore their hair long in childhood, and cut it off when they reached the age of puberty.

Did Spartans drink alcohol?

Wine was a staple of the Spartan diet, but they rarely drank to excess and often cautioned their children against drunkenness. In some cases, they would even force Helot slaves to get wildly inebriated as a way of showing young Spartans the negative effects of alcohol.

What does Xerxes look like?

Based on ancient carved stone reliefs remaining from the Achaemenid Dynasty, Xerxes is actually depicted as having long curly hair and beard, adorned with a crown and royal robe. However, he probably did have pierced ears, for it was the fashion of men at the time in ancient Persia.

Are there modern descendants of Spartans?

The Maniots (inhabitants of the Mani Peninsula) therefore are considered direct descendants of Spartans. Almost three thousand years ago, Greece consisted of multiple ‘polis’ that were mostly controlled by Sparta. The Maniots, despite their incredible history, now prefer a life of peace.

What did the Spartan warriors wear?

Going into battle, a Spartan soldier, or hoplite, wore a large bronze helmet, breastplate and ankle guards, and carried a round shield made of bronze and wood, a long spear and sword. Spartan warriors were also known for their long hair and red cloaks.

What did Spartans look like physically?

Physically, Spartans were probably taller and more buff than average Greeks. They trained vigorously, and were expected to be in great shape should the need for battle arise. Click to see full answer. Simply so, what did Spartan helmets really look like?

Why did Spartan men have long hair?

In addition to these sources, the admittedly dubious Plutarch claims Spartan men took particular care of their hair especially in the face of danger and refers to an alleged quote from Lycurgus that long hair was preferred because it rendered a handsome man better looking, and an ugly one more frightening.

How did Spartan males get involved in the military?

A Spartan male’s involvement with the army began in infancy when the Gerousia first inspected him. Any baby judged weak or deformed was left at Mount Taygetus to die since the Spartan society was no place for those who could not fend for themselves.