I disagree, have you ever wielded a sword from horseback? I have. The height advantage with stirrups enables the rider to bring his sword down on top of the enemy, over his shield. I spent two years on a horse riding across the American Continent (see profile) and have had horses for many years. When I mention the example of siting in a chair or standing, I wasn't implying as to the weight of the sword, but to the effectiveness of the blow from above. Of course my opinion about stirrups is from my own personal experiences. I have also done a lot of bareback riding and as I said Its only my opinion based on my experiences. I didn't get that out of a book. Do you by any chance come from England?
German, Gauls and Brits, didn't fight in close formations, but charged in unorganized masses, as I've read. The Romans also beat the Greeks with their phalanx and sixteen or twenty foot spear (I've forgotten the length). In these battles cavalry was also used to harass the unprotected flanks and rear, if possible.
The heavy horse was not only to carry more weight, but to run down more people on foot. Once the enemy had spent their spears, they were left with sword and shield. No problem for a horse to penetrate. War horses were trained to not stop. that I believe was the purpose of training with hurtles The Romans found heavier horses in northern Gaul and Belgium, where they were being bred, or so I've read. But then I've been wrong before, how about you?
As far as the average height of Romans 5'6' was the most common height in my reading. I gave them the extra inch, for the benefit of the doubt. I have always been impressed by the amount of roman studies and reenactment groups in the UK. There might be as much in France or Germany, but since I either speak or read those languages and American and English are almost similar, joking, I find the English sites very well informed. Thank you for the opportunity of this discussion. I always enjoy different points of view. Please do respond if you would like to carry this discussion further.
On another note, could you tell me what goes in the signature space? I am still fumbling my way through this wonderful site.
My name is Renato, Renatus in latin, here in the States people simply call me Ron.