Constitution of the Lacedaimonians (11.8-11.9)

urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0032.tlg010.perseus-eng2:11.8-11.9

Refs	`{'start': {'reference': '11.8', 'human_reference': 'Chapter 11 Section 8'}, 'end': {'reference': '11.9', 'human_reference': 'Chapter 11 Section 9'}}`
Ancestors	`[{'reference': '11'}]`
Children	`[]`

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The Lacedaemonians also carry out with perfect ease manoeuvres that instructors in tactics think very difficult. Thus, when they march in column, every section of course follows in the rear of the section in front of it. Suppose that at such a time an enemy in order of battle suddenly makes his appearance in front: the word is passed to the second lieutenant to deploy into line to the left, and so throughout the column until the battle-line stands facing the enemy. Or again, if the enemy appears in the rear while they are in this formation, each file counter-marches, in order that the best men may always be face to face with the enemy.

True, the leader is then on the left, but instead of thinking this a disadvantage, they regard it as a positive advantage at times. For should the enemy attempt a flanking movement he would try to encircle them, not on the exposed but on the protected side.[*] If, however, it seems better for any reason that the leader should be on the right wing, the left wing wheels, and the army counter-marches by ranks until the leader is on the right, and the rear of the column on the left.

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