The Training and Recruitment of the Ancient Macedonian Army

TLDRDiscover how the ancient Macedonian army recruited and trained its soldiers, including its renowned cavalry. Learn about their rigorous physical tests, moral values, and education at the School of Pages. Explore their intense hunts and the transition to the elite Companion Cavalry.

Key insights

🛡️The recruitment of the Macedonian infantry involved selecting physically and mentally fit men from various professions and age groups.

🐴The Macedonian cavalry, particularly the Hetairoi or Companion cavalry, was the backbone of the army and received extensive training and education.

👨‍🏫The School of Pages provided military training, education in Greek literature and philosophy, and instilled values of respect, commitment, and humility.

🏹Hunting was a crucial part of the training, teaching the boys bravery, sharp senses, and adaptability to different terrains.

🗡️Only the boys who excelled in hunting and demonstrated warrior skills would graduate and join the elite Companion Cavalry.

Q&A

How were men recruited for the Macedonian infantry?

The men were selected based on physical and mental qualities, with officers choosing the fittest candidates from various professions.

What values and morals did the Macedonian soldiers uphold?

The soldiers were influenced by popular stories, songs, and literary works like Homer's Iliad, which emphasized bravery, brotherhood, and friendly competition.

What was the role of the School of Pages in the training?

The School of Pages provided military training, education in Greek literature and philosophy, and instilled values of respect, commitment, and humility.

How did hunting contribute to the training?

Hunting simulated the struggles of battle, teaching the boys bravery, sharp senses, and adaptability to different terrains.

How did the boys join the elite Companion Cavalry?

After graduating from the School of Pages, the boys who excelled in hunting and demonstrated warrior skills would join the elite Companion Cavalry.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The video introduces the topic of the recruitment and training of the ancient Macedonian army.

00:59The recruitment of the Macedonian infantry involved selecting physically and mentally fit men based on their professions and age groups.

06:23The School of Pages provided military training and education, teaching values of respect, commitment, and humility.

11:33Hunting was an essential part of the training, simulating battle struggles and teaching bravery and adaptability.

13:27The boys who excelled in hunting and demonstrated warrior skills would graduate and join the elite Companion Cavalry.