shield-bearer

Sometimes numbers are cut back to make a last stand sound even more impressive, like that of the Spartans at Thermopylae or the Gododdin at Catraeth, Clearly only the actual warriors are counted here 300 in both cases, though each warrior would have had at least one shield-bearer with him.

Early medieval armies: numbers Carla 2010

As the words died on his lips he took from the hands of his attendant shield-bearer his heavy shield, and there, at his post, unflinchingly fought and fell; not quite alone, for by his side faithfully lingered a favourite youth, and of the

Hellenica 2007

On these occasions, he seats himself in his own savage chair, and is attended by his shield-bearer: who holds over his head a shield of cowhide — in shape like an immense mussel shell — fearfully and wonderfully, after the manner of a theatrical supernumerary.

Reprinted Pieces 2007

Xenophon was left by his shield-bearer, who carried off his shield, but Eurylochus of Lusia63, an

Anabasis 2007

The gelding lurches, and Lorn has to fight to hold his seat even as he slashes down with the chaos-aided sabre to cut aside one shield-bearer, and then another.

Scion of Cyador Modesitt, L. E. 2000

The shield-bearer must protect the swordsman, but has himself no weapon with which to attack.

Lion Of Macedon Gemmell, David 1990

The shield-bearer must protect the swordsman, but has himself no weapon with which to attack.

Lion Of Macedon Gemmell, David 1990

The swordsman must protect the shield-bearer, though he has no shield to defend himself.

Lion Of Macedon Gemmell, David 1990

Ignoring him, Pelopidas darted for the shield-bearer, hurling himself at the man.

Lion Of Macedon Gemmell, David 1990

The swordsman must protect the shield-bearer, though he has no shield to defend himself.

Lion Of Macedon Gemmell, David 1990