scutarius

Scutarius is a term derived from Latin, meaning "shield-bearer." It refers to a type of ancient Roman soldier who carried a large, round shield known as a scutum. The scutarius was a crucial component of the Roman military, serving as a shield bearer for the legionary cohort. Their primary role was to protect the cohort's standard bearer, known as the signifer, and to provide a shield wall to protect the cohort from enemy attacks.

The scutarius was equipped with a scutum, which was a large, round shield made of wood covered with leather or metal. The shield was typically about 1.5 meters in diameter and was carried on the left arm. The scutarius also carried a gladius, a short sword, and a pilum, a short spear used for throwing. The scutarius was typically a veteran soldier who had served in the Roman army for several years.

The scutarius played a vital role in the Roman military, providing protection for the cohort's standard bearer and forming a shield wall to protect the cohort from enemy attacks. Their skills and experience made them valuable assets to the Roman army, and they were highly respected by their fellow soldiers. The scutarius was an essential component of the Roman military, and their contributions to the success of the Roman army are widely recognized.