Besieged: Siege Warfare in the Ancient World

First of all, this book is actually four Osprey books on Classical siege warfare in one (Elite titles 121 and 126 and New Vanguard titles 78 and 89), so if you want those books buy this one instead and if you already have them don't! The entirety of this book is by Duncan Campbell, an expert on ancient Roman fortifications and siege warfare who is well qualified to write such a book. There are some typical color plates interspersed throughout, some by the well-known and talented Adam Hook. The text is invaluable, discussing ancient siege warfare from late Assyrian and Persian days to that of the 4th Century Romans. Slightly more than half of the book deals with the Romans, while the first half focuses largely on Greek sieges of the 5th-3rd Centuries BC. In addition to many photos, maps, and diagrams, many in color, the book also contains page-sized sections discussing particular ancient machines used in sieges, like the 'digging tortoise', the ram-tortoise, the sambuca, and the famous Roman siege tower. The book also contains a good dose of information on the siege warfare of the enemies of the Classical world, notably the Carthaginians, Gauls, Goths, and Achaemenid and Sassanid Persians. Overall, it is a thorough and readable introduction to ancient siege warfare and would be a useful addition to the library of any military historian or history enthusiast.

This is a fine book well illustrated with maps and pictures. The bibliography is nice. Criticisms (minor!)Some of the illustrations are misinterpreted: The hoplites on P.39 have their shields slung on their shoulders, not held in their left hand; and the ram on pg. 42 is not visible. The modern photos are generally excellent but would be inproved with letters as overlays showing relevant features. The military-historical judegements of the author are right on line! As for the title? The book is much more about the attackers than the defenders!

BESIEGED: SIEGE WARFARE IN THE ANCIENT WORLD may be a specialty item for college-level holdings, but any collection strong in early history - not just military holdings - must have it. It covers the methods of siege warfare, examining history, politics, tactics and weaponry alike in a thorough coverage which includes lavish illustrations, photos and maps throughout. The evolution of siege warfare through nine centuries comes to life in a top pick for any ancient history library. Diane C. Donovan California Bookwatch