Mycenaean Armor

By Crusader1307

The Mycenaean Peoples were the “last” of The Great Bronze Age civilizations which would evolve into the eventual Greek City States. Their military was focused on “Heavies” (or rather heavily armored Infantry). Prior to the 14th Century B.C. - they (like most), concentrated more on mobility and less on armor. With bronze casting and working techniques evolving as well, The Mycenaean's (around 1450 B.C.) - began to field “armored” Troops. A typical Mycenaean “Heavy” was clad in a multiple component armor suit. Made of cast bronze and plate, these suits featured a heavy and segmented front piece and skirt. Jointed by cloth (and later semi-riveted), a full shoulder plating (similar to Spaulders), was attached. Noted for the “Neck Barrel” (or open tube) at the front – the Wearer “slid” from the rear into this piece. This provided maximum protection to the neck and lower portion of the face. This drawback was obvious. The Neck Barrel severely limited the Wearer's side vision. Topped off by a helmet (normally a Bronzed Horned version), a soldier would be well protected. The major drawback however was Not in the vision issue – but mobility! Range of motion was badly hampered by these suits. The Mycenaean design would however be the first evolutionary step towards the Greek Linothorax Armor.