Spear

Hoplite with spear from Greco–Persian Wars

Stele of Vultures detail 01-transparent

Warrior spear CdM Paris DeRidder299

Roman soldier 175 aC in northern province

Assyrian soldier holding a spear and wearing a helmet. Detail of a basalt relief from the palace of Tiglath-pileser III at Hadatu, Syria. 744-727 BCE. Ancient Orient Museum, Istanbul

Pikeniere Wallenstein-Festspiele Memmingen

Spear is a pole weapon consisting of a shaft, usually of wood, with a pointed head. The head may be simply the sharpened end of the shaft itself, which is termed a spear point, or it may be made of a more durable material fastened to the shaft, such as flint, obsidian, iron, steel, or bronze. Spears have been used throughout human history both as hunting weapons and as weapons of war.

History

The spear is one of the oldest weapons used by humans. The earliest evidence of spears dates back to the Stone Age, where they were used primarily for hunting. As time progressed, the design and materials of spears evolved. The invention of the spear-thrower, which allowed spears to be thrown with greater force and accuracy, was a significant advancement. In the Bronze Age, metal spearheads became common, significantly increasing the weapon's effectiveness. Throughout history, the spear has been a staple weapon for warriors across various cultures, including the Greek hoplites, Roman legions, and Zulu warriors.

Design and Variants

The basic design of a spear consists of a long shaft with a pointed tip. However, there are many variants, including:

• Javelins: Light spears designed primarily for throwing.
• Pikes: Very long spears used in infantry formations.
• Lances: Spears used by cavalry units, often during charges.
• Halberds: A hybrid weapon that combines elements of a spear with an axe.

The effectiveness of a spear is determined by its length, weight, and the material of the spearhead. Spears used for throwing, such as javelins, are typically lighter and shorter, while those designed for thrusting or formation combat, like pikes, are longer and heavier.

Tactics and Usage

In warfare, spears were used in various formations and tactics. The phalanx formation, used by ancient Greek hoplites, relied heavily on the spear. Soldiers would form rows and present a wall of spear points towards the enemy. This formation was highly effective in close combat and was adopted in various forms by many cultures.

Spears were also used by cavalry units. The lance, a type of spear, was a primary weapon for knights and other mounted warriors during the Middle Ages. The impact of a lance charge could break enemy lines and was a decisive factor in many battles.

In hunting, spears were used to attack large game, allowing the hunter to maintain a safer distance from the prey. The invention of the spear-thrower, and later the bow and arrow, increased the range and effectiveness of the spear in hunting.

Cultural Significance

The spear has held significant cultural and symbolic meanings in various societies. It is often associated with courage, valor, and the warrior ethos. In some cultures, the spear is a symbol of power and authority. For example, in Zulu culture, the spear (known as the assegai) was a symbol of the king's military power.

Modern Use

While the spear has largely been replaced by modern firearms in warfare, it is still used in certain ceremonial contexts and as a hunting weapon in some cultures. The sport of javelin throw in athletics is a modern continuation of the ancient practice of spear throwing.

See Also

• Weapon
• Military history
• Hunting weapon