Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus
Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus: A Roman Writer of Military Manuals
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus is the full name of a Roman writer who is best known by his pen name, Vegetius. His full name suggests that he was a member of the noble class in Rome, but little else is known about his personal life.
Birth and Death Dates
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Unfortunately, the exact dates of Vegetius' birth and death are unknown. It is believed that he lived during the 4th or 5th century AD, although some scholars argue for a later date.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Vegetius was a Roman writer who specialized in military manuals. His works demonstrate a deep understanding of ancient Roman warfare and tactics, which suggest that he had experience as a soldier or officer in the Roman army.
Early Life and Background
Vegetius' background is shrouded in mystery. It is believed that he was born into a noble family in Rome, but there is no record of his parents or early life. As a young man, Vegetius may have served in the Roman army, where he gained knowledge of military tactics and strategies.
Major Accomplishments
Vegetius' most significant accomplishment is his writing of three military manuals: _De Re Militari_ (On Military Matters), _Epitoma Rei Militaris_ (Summary of Military Matters), and _De Rebus Bellicis_ (On Warlike Matters). These works provide detailed instructions on how to train soldiers, organize military campaigns, and conduct battles. Vegetius' writings were widely read and studied by Roman officers and generals for centuries.
Notable Works or Actions
Vegetius' most famous work is _De Re Militari_, which is considered one of the most influential military treatises of ancient Rome. In this work, he outlines the organization and training of the Roman legions, including the use of siege engines, cavalry, and infantry tactics. Vegetius also provides advice on how to choose a good commander, manage logistics, and prepare for battles.
Impact and Legacy
Vegetius' writings had a significant impact on military strategy and tactics in ancient Rome and beyond. His works were widely read and studied by Roman officers and generals, who used his advice to win many battles. The Roman Empire's military campaigns against the Visigoths and Vandals, for example, may have been influenced by Vegetius' ideas.
Vegetius' legacy extends far beyond ancient Rome. His writings on military organization and tactics continue to influence modern armies and navies. The United States Marine Corps, for example, still uses Vegetius' advice on training and organization in its own manuals.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Vegetius is widely quoted or remembered because of his insightful writings on military strategy and tactics. His works provide a unique glimpse into the mind of a Roman officer who lived during a time of great change and upheaval. Vegetius' emphasis on discipline, organization, and adaptability continues to inspire modern military leaders and strategists.
In addition, Vegetius is remembered for his advocacy of the importance of training and preparation in military campaigns. He believed that well-trained soldiers were essential to winning battles, and he provided detailed instructions on how to train infantrymen, cavalrymen, and other types of soldiers.
Vegetius' legacy extends beyond the world of war and strategy. His writings have inspired countless authors, historians, and thinkers who seek to understand the intricacies of human conflict and cooperation. As a testament to his enduring influence, Vegetius continues to be widely read and studied today, more than 1,500 years after he wrote his famous military manuals.
Quotes by Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus
Publius Flavius Vegetius Renatus's insights on:
In war, discipline is superior to strength; but if that discipline is neglected there is no longer any difference between the soldier and the peasant.
When men find they must inevitably perish, they willingly resolve to die with their comrades and with their arms in their hands.
To seduce the enemies soldiers from their allegiance and encourage them to surrender is of special service, for an adversary is more hurt by desertion than by slaughter.
Men are seldom born brave but they acquire courage through training and discipline - a handful of men inured to war proceed to certain victory; while on the contrary numerous armies of raw and undisciplined troops are but multitudes of men dragged to the slaughter.
Opportunity in war is usually of greater value than bravery... Terrain is often of more value than bravery... Bravery is of more value than numbers.
