The Minor Subarmalis | Weapons of History

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The Minor Subarmalis was possibly the smallest type of Javalin deployed by the Roman Legionaries. The Roman legionary was a formidable force, equipped with a variety of weapons to dominate the battlefield. Among these was the lancea, a versatile spear often used for both throwing and thrusting. This adaptability led to a diverse range of lanceae, each with its own unique size and function. One such variant was the lightweight javelin, perfect for disrupting enemy formations before close-quarters combat. The smallest of these javelins, the minor subarmalis, offers a fascinating glimpse into the tactical considerations of the Roman army.
The name "minor subarmalis" itself is quite telling. Translated as "small, under the arm," it hints at the javelin's portability. Unlike their larger counterparts, these javelins were designed to be easily carried by legionaries. The ease of transport likely stemmed from their size - they were believed to be shorter than the legionary's oval shield. This characteristic is evident in a key piece of evidence: a relief sculpture unearthed at the legionary headquarters building in Mainz, Germany.
Dating back to the later part of the 1st century AD, the relief depicts a legionary in action. He's shown running, a single minor subarmalis held in his throwing hand. Notably, two additional javelins are tucked behind his shield, highlighting their compact nature. It's important to consider that space constraints on the column base might have limited the artist's portrayal of the javelins' full length. However, even taking this into account, the depiction aligns with the understanding of the minor subarmalis' size.
While the physical evidence for the minor subarmalis is currently limited to this single relief, its purpose can be inferred from the role of other javelin types employed by Roman legionaries. These lighter projectiles were instrumental in disrupting enemy formations before close combat. Their advantage lay in their weight - legionaries could carry significantly more minor subarmalis compared to heavier javelins or spears. This translated to a greater number of projectiles launched in a single volley, potentially inflicting significant casualties on the opposing force.
In conclusion, the minor subarmalis stands is an example of the adaptability of the Roman legionary's arsenal. Its compact size and ease of transport made it a valuable tool for softening enemy ranks with a hail of javelins before engaging in close combat.
SOURCES:
www.worldhisto...
www.britannica...
ROMAN LEGIONARY AD 69-161 by ROSS COWAN
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