Synopses & Reviews
The catapult (katapeltikon) was invented under the patronage of Dionysius I, tyrant of Syracuse, in the 4th century bc. At first only the arrow-firing variant was used, and it was not until the reign of Alexander the Great that stone-projecting catapults were introduced. The Romans adopted these weapons during the Punic Wars and further developed them, before introducing the new arrow-firing ballista and stone-throwing onager. This title traces the often controversial design, development and construction of these weapons throughout the history of the classical world.
Synopsis
Developed around 400 BC in Syracuse, the catapult or 'katapeltikon' was conceived as a defensive weapon, and used as such Athens from 360 BC. By 340, Philip of Macedon had seen the weapon's offensive possibilities, using catapults in his assault on Perinthus, but it was left to his son Alexander to fully develop their offensive use. Under the Romans, the catapult underwent minor variations intended to improve its performance - this book provides a full survey of the evolution and deployment of the catapult during the classical period.
About the Author
Dr Duncan B Campbell is a specialist in ancient Greek and Roman warfare. He published his first paper in 1984 as an undergraduate at Glasgow University and produced a complete re-assessment of Roman siegecraft for his PhD. Over the years his work has appeared in several international journals. He lives near the Antonine Wall in Scotland with his wife and son.