Siege Warfare in the Roman World

Sieges played a central role in the many conflicts of the Ancient World and many famous generals, including Alexander the Great, Hannibal, Julius Caesar and Trajan, successfully used siegecraft to gain their objectives. This title explores the range of techniques and tactics which developed during the period, including crossing, penetrating and tunnelling through defences; starvation by blockade; and gaining access by deception. Describing the various techniques used, the author tracks the developments in siegecraft in the Roman world from 100 BC to AD 378.